Nowadays, locust trees in Beijing are blooming in full glory, decorating the city with greenish white flowers and marking the atmosphere balmy with sweet fragrance. When a light breeze blows, the locust flower petals fall like raindrops, creating a dreamy scene.

In fact, Beijing is famous for locust trees in the city, which, as well as Chinese arbor-vitae, are both considered as the symbol trees of Beijing.

Currently there are several ancient locust trees in Beijing. The most famous and oldest one is in the Beihai Park, aged over 1,300 years. It is 15 m tall, and has a circumference of 5.3 m. Some locust trees in the Forbidden City are also widely known.

In the 1980s, many locust trees were planted in Beijing to green the city, and they provide pleasant shades and a marvelous sight in summer. Most Beijingers who took part in the project have a strong affection for these trees.

Nowadays, there are more than 500 thousand locust trees in Beijing, most around 15 years old. However, their beautiful blossoms also bring much trouble to street cleaners, who find it very hard to clear off the tiny fallen petals.

(Chinanews.cn August 2, 2007)