Is Manuka a New Highlight in Chandigarh's Museum of Trees?
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Synopsis
Chandigarh's Museum of Trees has welcomed a new Manuka tree, symbolizing ecological friendship between India and New Zealand. This unique addition not only enriches the museum's collection but also serves as a reminder of the deep connections between cultures through nature. Discover how this initiative aims to educate visitors about biodiversity.
Key Takeaways
- The Museum of Trees adds a Manuka tree symbolizing ecological friendship.
- The Kiwi Grove features notable New Zealand species.
- Curator D.S. Jaspal emphasizes the educational role of the grove.
- The museum serves as a living repository of cultural heritage.
- Support from the Union Ministry of Culture underscores its significance.
Chandigarh, Oct 28 (NationPress) The Museum of Trees in Chandigarh, with support from the Union Ministry of Culture, has recently unveiled a new attraction by planting a Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) tree, celebrated globally as the origin of the famed Manuka honey.
The sapling, cultivated at the museum's Plant Breeding Centre, was planted in the kiwi grove, an area dedicated to the remarkable trees of New Zealand. This grove is already home to three extraordinary species from New Zealand: kauri, totara, and black beech.
The curator of the Museum of Trees, D.S. Jaspal, who authored “Tryst with Trees: Punjab’s Sacred Heritage”, shared with IANS that the Kiwi Grove is designed as a space for education and discovery, allowing visitors to experience the biodiversity of distant regions and to appreciate how trees link different cultures and continents.
Backed by the Ministry of Culture and supported by the Chandigarh Nature and Health Society, the Museum of Trees stands as the world’s pioneering initiative focused on the conservation and propagation of sacred, rare, and culturally significant trees via scientific methods. With over 350 species from India and beyond—including true genotypes of 12 sacred trees of Sikhism that have been successfully cloned—the museum acts as a living archive of botanical and cultural legacy.
During the planting ceremony, Aman Jaspal, the museum's Assistant Curator, stated, “The Kiwi Grove represents the enduring friendship between India and New Zealand, reminding us that ecological balance transcends borders.”
The ceremonial planting of the Manuka sapling was performed by Joanna Gill, sister-in-law of former New Zealand cricket captain Glenn Turner, marking a significant gesture of ecological partnership between India and New Zealand.
The inclusion of the Manuka tree aligns with the museum’s goal to bridge global cultures through the shared heritage of trees and to highlight the diverse tree legacy within Chandigarh—fostering awareness, curiosity, and stewardship for the natural environment.
Point of View
The addition of the Manuka tree at Chandigarh's Museum of Trees represents a significant step in fostering global ecological awareness. This initiative not only highlights the importance of biodiversity but also emphasizes the cultural connections that trees facilitate, reinforcing the notion that nature unites us all.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Manuka tree?
The Manuka tree is renowned for its honey, which has gained global recognition for its health benefits and unique flavor.
Where is the Museum of Trees located?
The Museum of Trees is located in Chandigarh, India, and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing rare and culturally significant trees.
Who planted the Manuka sapling?
The Manuka sapling was ceremonially planted by Joanna Gill, sister-in-law of former New Zealand cricket captain Glenn Turner.
What other trees are in the Kiwi Grove?
The Kiwi Grove currently features kauri, totara, and black beech trees, all native to New Zealand.
What is the mission of the Museum of Trees?
The mission of the Museum of Trees is to preserve and propagate sacred trees while educating the public about biodiversity and cultural heritage.
