By Janine Dumaguin
The Masungi Georeserve on Thursday, March 23 shared some stunning snaps of the Philippines’ native Salingogon tree, the country’s version of the iconic cherry blossom of Japan.
This famous sakura-like tree, attracted passers-by as it started to bloom its pink flowers thus stand out among the greenery in Masungi Georeserve.
According to Masungi Georeserve on a Facebook post, the tree scientifically known as Cratoxylum formosum can grow up to 65 feet tall, with some known specimens reaching over 140 feet.
“Under the protection of Masungi park rangers, these trees are flourishing without the threat of being cleared,” Masungi Georeserve said.
The georeserve management also said that more of this flora species have already been planted in the Masungi Georeserve Project, their reforestation initiative in denuded watershed areas.
“However, they are all young and we will need patience to see a forest of pink blooms in the future,” Masungi Georeserve added.
The management also assured that under their park rangers’ care the public will see its full bloom at “almost the same time as the famous Japanese look-alike Sakura”.
Meanwhile, the management encouraged the public to show support in biodiversity conservation through visiting its website as well as signing the petition against destructive activities. – gb