ISLAND Glades received an extra touch of greenery when 100 platycerium coronariums, also commonly known as staghorn ferns, were planted there yesterday.
Seri Delima assemblyman Connie Tan Hooi Peng launched the initiative to transform a grass lane into a more environmentally friendly space.
She said the primary objective of planting staghorn ferns is not only to enhance the greenery but also to absorb carbon dioxide.
Additionally, the plant enhances the city’s aesthetics, providing drivers with a tranquil garden-like experience as they pass by.
“This is Penang’s first project to plant staghorn ferns along a main road.
“With 100 trees already planted along about two kilometres in Island Glades, these plants, often seen in tropical rainforests and widely planted in Singapore, are intended to beautify the environment.
“It takes six months for the staghorn ferns to reach maturity, and I anticipate that as they flourish, they will contribute to greening the grassy lane and enhancing the beauty of Penang’s roads for everyone to appreciate,” she said.
Staghorn ferns are often spotted growing off trees, showcasing exposed roots. As an epiphytic plant, a staghorn fern relies on other plants or objects for support but is not parasitic in nature.
The initiative, costing RM10,000, was funded by Tan’s service centre.
Furthermore, a private company, AOClinic, generously sponsored 50 plants to support the initiative for a greener environment
“If the initial phase of the plan proves successful, we will explore planting more plants in other sections of the road.
“I would also like to thank the Landscape Department of Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for their participation and assistance. I hope the MBPP will take good care of the plants in the future and make this project, the first in Penang, a success,” Tan added.
On another matter, Tan said the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has scheduled trucks to collect garbage every Saturday.
Residents of Island Glades and Island Park can leave their recyclables at the front of their homes for collection by workers on Saturday mornings from 8.30am to 4pm.
Story by Nur Syakirah Mohd Basri
Pix by Nur Syakirah Mohd Basri and Joanne Foong Chee Yin