The Jurassic Kingdom of the "Plant Panda": Panzhihua Cycas National Nature Reserve and the Legend of the God Tree

A Living Fossil from the Dinosaur Era

Imagine stepping into a dense subtropical jungle where ancient plants stand like giant pineapples, their thick trunks topped with layers of feather-like leaves spreading out to capture the sun. Sunlight filters through the canopy, dappling the ground in light and shadow, while the air carries the scent of wet earth and prehistoric flora. This is not a scene from a movie, but the reality of the Panzhihua Cycas National Nature Reserve. Located at the junction of Renhe District and Miyi County in Panzhihua City, Sichuan Province, about 50 kilometers from the city center, this reserve covers a core area of approximately 136 square kilometers with an altitude ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters. It is a National Level Nature Reserve and is celebrated globally as the "Home of Chinese Cycas" and a "Kingdom of Living Fossil Plants." Here, you will find the world's largest, densest, and most naturally preserved community of wild cycads, numbering over one million plants. These "Plant Pandas" have survived for over 200 million years, witnessing the rise and fall of the dinosaurs, yet they continue to thrive in the unique dry-hot valley of Panzhihua, offering a rare glimpse into the biological landscape of the Jurassic period.

The Wonder of the "Cycas Forest"

The reserve's most striking feature is the Cycas Forest, a spectacular natural phenomenon where hundreds of thousands of cycads grow together, forming a verdant ocean. The Cycas panzhihuaensis, a national Class I protected plant, stands tall with trunks reaching up to 10 meters, creating a unique "Green Wave" when the wind blows. Unlike typical rainforests, this reserve sits in a dry-hot valley ecosystem, leading to a fascinating coexistence of drought-resistant plants. You will see ancient cycads growing side-by-side with tall cacti and agaves, creating a globally unique landscape. The area is also dotted with geological wonders; limestone formations and mysterious caves add to the allure. The Lanxi Waterfall cascades down cliffs, its thunderous roar and mist providing a refreshing contrast to the dry valley heat. Beneath the waterfall, clear pools invite visitors to dip their toes, while nearby karst caves offer thrilling exploration opportunities with their crystalline stalactites and cool air.

The "God Tree" of the Yi People

Culturally, the cycad is deeply woven into the spiritual life of the local Yi people (Noso branch). For centuries, they have revered the cycad as a "God Tree" (Shenshu). Legends say the plant was a seed left by celestial beings, its trunk resembling dragon scales to protect the village and its leaves like phoenix feathers bringing good fortune. The village Bimo (priest) uses cycad branches in sacred rituals to pray to the mountain gods for harvest and safety. During the Torch Festival, the forest comes alive with tradition. Villagers holding torches patrol through the cycad groves, believing the fire drives away evil spirits and protects the forest's vitality. This harmonious relationship between the indigenous people and these ancient plants adds a profound layer of cultural depth to the natural beauty. Visitors can witness these traditions, listen to myths about the "Cycas Fairy" who guides lost hunters, and see how the community has protected these "living fossils" for generations.

1.An Ecological: Classroom and Photography Paradise

Today, the reserve is not just a sanctuary but a vibrant center for ecological education and photography. The Science and Research Monitoring Station within the park provides insights into the evolution of these ancient plants. Walking along the winding forest trails, visitors might encounter rare wildlife such as rock sheep or playful monkeys inhabiting the pristine environment. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons: spring brings the sprouting of new, tender green leaves and blooming wildflowers; summer offers a cool retreat with lush greenery and abundant waterfalls; autumn paints the forest with red fruits; and winter provides a mysterious, misty atmosphere. Whether you are a botany enthusiast eager to study the "Plant Panda," a photographer chasing the light and shadow of the prehistoric forest, or a family seeking a unique educational trip, the Panzhihua Cycas National Nature Reserve offers a profound connection to the earth's ancient past and the enduring power of life.