Hyangnamu Tree in Changdeokgung Palace

The juniper tree of Changdeokgung is estimated to be about 700 years old, with a height of 12m and a root circumference of 5.9m. Its branches extend in four directions—east, west, south, and north—but the south branch has been cut off, the north branch is dead, and the east branch has grown into a twisted, deformed shape. The tree's appearance resembles a dragon ascending to the sky.

Changdeokgung was built in the 4th year of King Taejong of Joseon (1404) as a detached palace for the royal family. It is assumed that a fairly mature large tree was planted after the construction of the detached palace, which is why the tree's age is estimated at 700 years. Having lived under the care and attention of ancestors for centuries, this juniper tree holds high cultural value and is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.