Living monument—Pinus densiflora form. octopartina in Hamhung

June 2, 2026

Pinus densiflora form. octopartina is a variety of pine tree with some features. The trunk generally grows ramifying at the lower part and the crown spreads in the shape of a wide eclipse or a round tray. It does not grow tall, as it spreads out branches near the ground.

This deformed tree in Hamhung is over 400 years old and grows in the front yard of a historic building in Hungdok District, Hamhung City.

The evergreen tree going well with the old historical site is rare to be found in the world.

The trunk grows sloping southeastwards and then stretching southwestwards horizontally. Two big branches spread out, gradually slanting downwards to the ground. 

Lots of twigs grow out of the branches and have green leaves at the tips, forming a crown in the shape of a beautiful tray.

And there are two small branches drooping from the trunk.

Seeing the tree in February 1948, President Kim Il Sung told the accompanying officials its features and historical origin and made sure that it was well protected and tended.

The tree is of great significance in botanical study for the curious appearance and old age.

THE PYONGYANG TIMES

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