Two Trees in Famagusta Designated as “Monumental Trees”
The Chamber of Landscape Architects has recently announced that two distinguished trees in Famagusta have been recognized as “Monumental Trees” and placed under protection. These trees, located on the route known as the “Lovers’ Lane” near the walls of Famagusta, were deemed to have the characteristic of “Monumental Trees”.
Dr. Gülizar Eroğlu, the head of the chamber, revealed that upon this determination, the Always Friends Group and the Famagusta District Governorship were promptly contacted. The decision to list the trees as “Monumental Trees” and protect them was officially published in the Official Gazette on July 24 by the Immovable Antiquities and Monuments High Council. Dr. Eroğlu expressed gratitude towards the Gazimağusa District Governorship and Forestry Department for their cooperation in this matter.
The trees in question, known by the Latin name “Phytolacca Dioica”, are believed to have been brought to Cyprus and planted during the British colonial period. These giant evergreen trees, also called Şekerci Boyası (Sugar Paint) and Shadow Tree, are native to South America and can grow to immense sizes. Their unique features include a diameter of up to 18 meters for their umbrella-like crown, drought resistance due to water storage in their trunk, and toxicity to pests thanks to their poisonous sap.
These trees are utilized for landscaping purposes in parks and in Bonsai making, with the fruits being used to produce traditional paint. The name Şekerci Boyası (Sweet Paint) is derived from this tree. Similar trees can also be found in Kyrenia, where they are known as Bella Solarus-Beautiful Shadow Tree.
The KTMMOB Chamber of Landscape Architects expressed their delight in leading the effort to list and safeguard these magnificent trees in Famagusta as Monumental Trees. They pledged to continue monitoring the process and strive to preserve the natural, historical, and cultural heritage of Cyprus.
