Tenerife Residents Celebrate Canary Tree Day with Faya Tree Distribution

On November 30, the island of Tenerife marked the Day of the Canary Tree by distributing faya trees to local residents at the Wildlife and Flora Recovery Centre located in La Tahonilla. This initiative not only commemorates the day but also aims to foster a deeper connection between the community and their natural environment.

Faya Trees Available for Local Residents

The Cabildo of Tenerife, through its dedicated department for Natural Environment, Sustainability, and Safety and Emergencies, is actively engaged in promoting environmental awareness. As part of this initiative, faya tree specimens are being offered free of charge to visitors at the La Tahonilla center in La Laguna. The distribution program is scheduled to continue until December 12, with designated hours from 09:00 to 14:00, Monday through Friday.

This thoughtful program is designed to encourage community involvement in the protection and conservation of the island’s forests. By gifting faya trees, the Cabildo aims to inspire residents to take an active role in environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of local flora and its preservation.

Understanding the Importance of the Faya Tree

Blanca Pérez, the councillor for Natural Environment, Sustainability, Safety, and Emergencies, underscored the unique biodiversity of the Canary Islands, particularly emphasizing Tenerife’s rich array of native and endemic species. The initiative on this significant day serves to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect this exceptional natural heritage and combat the ongoing threats to biodiversity.

The La Tahonilla Wildlife Recovery Centre plays a pivotal role in ecological restoration efforts and the recovery of thermophilic forests. Each year, the center produces approximately 30,000 plants across around 50 different species, providing the public with opportunities to purchase a variety of native Canary Island plants. This not only supports local biodiversity but also encourages residents to cultivate native species in their own gardens.

Faya Tree: Characteristics and Cultural Significance

The faya tree, while not endemic to the Canary Islands, is well-adapted to thrive in the region’s mixed pine forests and humid environments. It can grow to impressive heights of up to 20 meters and features simple leaves, small flowers, and edible fruits. Locally known as fayos, creces, or erúes, the fruits of the faya tree are sweet when fully ripe, although they can also possess an astringent flavor.

Historically, the fruits of the faya tree were dried and ground into a food substance akin to gofio, which has long been a staple in the local diet. Additionally, an infusion made from the flowers of the faya tree is traditionally believed to possess anti-catarrhal properties, showcasing the tree’s medicinal uses.

Beyond its nutritional and medicinal benefits, the faya tree is also highly valued for its wood. The timber has been utilized for crafting furniture and various agricultural tools, demonstrating the tree’s versatility and importance in local craftsmanship. Its multifaceted uses make the faya tree one of the most significant forest species in the region, contributing to both the economy and the cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife is gifting faya trees to residents at the La Tahonilla Wildlife and Flora Recovery Centre.
• This initiative is part of the celebration of the Day of the Canary Tree.
• Distribution of faya specimens will continue until December 12, from 09:00 to 14:00, Monday to Friday.
• The program aims to promote the conservation of local forests and raise awareness about the importance of native flora.
• The faya tree is a significant species in the Canary Islands, known for its edible fruits and versatile wood.