The sacred fig tree at the heart of Anuradhapura is claimed to be the oldest living tree with a documented history in the world. It was grown from a cutting of the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, and was brought to Sri Lanka in 288 BC by Sanghamitta, daughter of the Emperor Ashoka. The tree is enclosed in a walled enclosure and heavily guarded; pilgrims come every day to offer flowers and prayers. Even non-Buddhists find the atmosphere remarkable — this tree has been tended continuously for over two thousand years.
Sri Maha Bodhi
World's oldest documented tree, grown from Buddha's Bodhi tree