Tree seeds which survived atomic bombings in Japan planted in Norwich
It's part of an international project aimed creating lasting symbols of peace
Last updated 16th Jun 2022
Tree seeds which survived the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II are to be planted in Norwich, as a lasting symbol of peace.
The city has been gifted the seeds from hibaku-jumoku trees as part of the 'Mayors for Peace' programme, which was founded in Japan in 1982.
It encourages people in cities across the world to push for peace and the end of the use of nuclear weapons.
Norwich is one of 81 UK cities to support the scheme.
One of the Ginkgo trees will be planted in Chapelfield Gardens, with another at Easton College where the seeds have been germinated.
Lord Mayor of Norwich, Dr Kevin Maguire, said:
“Norwich prides itself on being a diverse city and a welcoming city, where people have lived together in harmony – from the ‘strangers’ who arrived here in the sixteenth century, to those fleeing conflict in more recent years.
“Alongside residents who are opening up their homes, the city council is providing help and support to people coming to Norwich from Ukraine and I think the aim of world peace is something that is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.”
Horticulture lecturer at Easton College, Dawn Marjoram, oversaw the eight week process of getting the seeds to germinate and grow. She said:
“It was a real honour to be entrusted with the germination of these precious seeds which have so much significance.”
“It has been a great experience for our horticulture students to learn about the process of growing Ginkgo Biloba trees, and to engage with the important history behind the seedlings that we are now nurturing.”