The Kum Tree Legacy: Separating Myths from Facts in Kumasi

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When visiting Kumasi, many are drawn to the majestic tree at the historic Manhyia Palace, often referred to as the Kum tree or Banyan tree.

This towering presence has captivated visitors for years, not just for its beauty but for its supposed connection to the origins of Kumasi’s name.

However, while the tree at Manhyia is undoubtedly impressive, it is not one of the three Kum trees planted by King Osei Tutu and Ashanti elders that inspired the city’s name.

The Original 3 Kum Trees and Thwue Historical Role

The three Kum trees planted by King Osei Tutu and Ashanti elders were central to the founding of Kumasi and the Ashanti Kingdom.

According to oral traditions, it was under these trees that King Osei Tutu I and his advisors, including the spiritual leader Okomfo Anokye, gathered to make decisions about the establishment of the Ashanti Kingdom.

The name Kumasi comes from the Twi phrase “Kum Ase”, meaning ‘under the Kum tree’, reflecting the symbolic importance of the three Kum trees planted at Kwadane, Bantama, and Adum.

The Legacy of Kumasi’s Kum Trees and the Manhyia Palace Tree

The Indian Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) at Manhyia Palace is often mistakenly believed to be one of the original Kum trees, a misconception that persists despite the information stated on its sign.

However, it is not only unrelated to Kumasi’s name but also not a Kum tree at all.

While its wide canopy and striking aerial roots evoke admiration, this tree was introduced to Kumasi much later and serves as an ornamental feature of the palace grounds.

Its beauty adds to the historical significance of the Manhyia Palace but should not be confused with the Kum trees that inspired the city’s name.

Botanical Characteristics of the Indian Rubber Tree

The Indian Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) is a member of the Moraceae family. Known for its glossy, oval-shaped leaves and upright growth, this tree is commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes.

• Common Name: Indian Rubber Tree
• Scientific Name: Ficus elastica
• Family: Moraceae
• Native Habitat: Tropical and subtropical regions of India and Southeast Asia
• Distinctive Features: The tree has a smooth trunk, thick aerial roots, and a dense, umbrella-like canopy, making it a popular shade tree.
• Local Name in Asante Twi: Abare
• Year Introduced to Manhyia Palace: Circa 1916

Clarifying the Tree’s Identity

The tree at Manhyia Palace is often mistaken for both the Kum tree referenced in Kumasi’s name and a Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis).

However, it is neither. Scientifically identified as an Indian Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica), it is a distinct species that belongs to the same Moraceae family as the Banyan tree but differs significantly in its structure and growth habits.

While the Banyan tree is known for its sprawling aerial roots and multiple trunks, the Indian Rubber Tree has a smoother trunk and fewer aerial roots, making it unique in its own right.

Honoring the Tree at Manhyia Palace

Cultural Significance of the Indian Rubber Tree

While the tree at Manhyia Palace is not the original Kum tree, it still plays an important role in the city’s history and culture.

The Indian Rubber Tree is a stunning example of nature’s resilience and beauty. Its sprawling branches and aerial roots create an awe-inspiring presence that captivates visitors.

Located within the historic Manhyia Palace, right beside the Museum, the tree adds to the site’s tranquility and cultural importance as the official residence of the Asantehene (Ashanti King).

Visiting the Indian Rubber Tree at Manhyia Palace

The tree at Manhyia Palace symbolizes Kumasi’s ability to blend history, nature, and tradition.

While it may not be one of the three Kum trees, its enduring presence on the palace grounds reflects the Ashanti people’s connection to their environment and heritage.

The Fate of the Three Kum Trees

The three Kum trees no longer exist, likely lost to the passage of time. However, their legacy endures through:

• The Name Kumasi: A constant reminder of the trees’ role in shaping the Ashanti Kingdom’s identity.
• Oral Traditions: Stories passed down through generations keep the memory of the trees alive.
• Historical Sites: Locations like the Bantama Mausoleum, where another significant Kum tree was believed to stand, continue to hold cultural importance.

Of the three Kum trees planted by King Osei Tutu and Ashanti elders – at Kwadane, Bantama, and Adum – the tree at Bantama Mausoleum is believed to have been the last one standing.

Its deep cultural and spiritual significance, tied to the burial site of Ashanti royalty, made it a central point of reverence in Kumasi’s history.

Connecting the Legacy of the Kum Tree to Today

The three Kum trees and the Indian Rubber Tree at Manhyia Palace may be different, but they both embody themes of resilience, unity, and heritage. Together, they represent:

• The Past: A connection to the Ashanti Kingdom’s foundation and governance.
• The Present: A symbol of Kumasi’s evolving identity as a hub of history and culture.

For visitors, both the memory of the original Kum trees and the presence of the Manhyia Palace tree serve as opportunities to reflect on the rich history of the Ashanti people.

Honoring Nature and History

The story of the three Kum trees is one of unity, strength, and resilience – qualities that continue to define Kumasi and the Ashanti Kingdom.

While the tree at Manhyia Palace is not one of the original Kum trees, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ashanti people and their connection to the natural world.

When you visit Kumasi, take a moment to stand under the towering branches of the Indian Rubber Tree at Manhyia Palace.

Let it remind you of the stories, legends, and resilience that shaped the Ashanti Kingdom. And remember, the three Kum trees may no longer stand, but their legacy lives on in the heart of Kumasi.

Did you know that the tree at Manhyia Palace is not one of the three original Kum trees planted by King Osei Tutu? Share your thoughts or experiences visiting this iconic site in the comments below

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