Dragon Claw Pine

　　Introduction     The Dragon Claw Pine is located along the path to Shixin Peak. Walk from the Lianrui Pine, cross a small arched stone bridge, then climb uphill for about a hundred steps to reach it. This ancient pine tree is around 400 years old, with thick roots—its main root deeply anchored in the rock, while five robust lateral roots are entirely exposed above ground, resembling dragon claws, hence the name. Visitors who pass by all marvel at it. There is a ci poem titled “Butterflies Love Flowers – The Dragon Claw Pine” that praises it: “This year I seek spring blooms earlier than most, wading streams and climbing peaks, with fragrant mist curling on steep paths. Through layered ridges piercing clouds where soil is scarce, the strange pine’s roots are bare like dragon claws. Emerald leaves and coiling branches crown the rugged peak, warmly greeting guests as travelers smile and walk. Deep in dense woods on high mountains live many fine birds, pairs of lovers call sweetly from treetops.”   

　　 Huangshan City, Anhui