I can only begin to imagine what might have given this tree such an unusual shape with a bowl at the bottom and a slender trunk bent back into an arch, yet still growing leaves. We discovered this unique individual on my daughter’s May birthday hike through a nature preserve in southeatern North Carolina. I do not know what kind of tree it is, perhaps some kind of laurel, but I do know that it is a survivor. Here are some close ups:
The Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve contains a variety of habitats and diverse terrain:
Main trail 
Regeneration 
Natural Foundations 
Cypress 
Pond 
Palms and Cypress 
Meadow 
Granddaughter talking to a turtle 
Turtle
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Thursday Tree Love is hosted by Parul Thakur on the secon and fourth Thursday of each month. For more tree love, visit: https://www.happinessandfood.com/thursdaytreelove-115/
September 23, 2021 at 12:50 pm
What a lesson in survival! We should never give up. As you say: Anything is possible!
September 23, 2021 at 8:15 pm
You got it! Thanks, Rosaliene.
September 23, 2021 at 3:04 pm
Very nice!!
September 23, 2021 at 9:03 pm
Thanks, Dave.
September 24, 2021 at 5:16 pm
You bet!
September 23, 2021 at 10:04 pm
These pictures make me want to walk the wilderness again!
September 24, 2021 at 9:18 pm
I know what you mean! It’s been a few months for me. I hope we both make the time for walking in the wilderness soon.
September 24, 2021 at 12:42 am
Wonderful!! Despite the ‘bowl’ (obviously loss of plant tissue) and the bend, it is flourishing! Thanks for sharing this survivor!!
September 24, 2021 at 9:31 pm
Thank you for that word, flourishing! It certainly has been able to adapt.
September 24, 2021 at 4:09 am
As you know, similar scenes here, but not turtle. A lovely set.
September 24, 2021 at 9:33 pm
Thank you, Derrick. I’m glad you enjoyed this set.
October 13, 2021 at 9:48 am
Loved your pictures and that resilient tree. It must have gone through harsh winds and weather and stood its ground. So much to learn from this tree for sure. JoAnna – it must have been a happy hike with all that greenery and the birthday celebration. Thanks for joining with the trees and ofcouse a peek into your life. See you tomorrow.
October 13, 2021 at 11:39 pm
Thank you for your thoughtful understanding, Parul. It was a good hike with my grown kids and grand daughter. See you tomorrow!
October 17, 2021 at 8:24 pm
Nature is so amazing….that bowl is probably a good hidey hole for some little animals too
October 18, 2021 at 10:57 pm
Yes, Nature is amazing! I bet the bowl is like a little watering hole. Thanks for that image!