The Changi Tree & CGH Orchid

Standing tall, growing together

Over a century ago in eastern Singapore, a tree grew in the vicinity of what would become the old Changi Hospital. Believed to be a Sindora wallichii, it reached a height of 76 metres – a distinctive landmark known as the Changi Tree.

As a beacon in early sea navigation charts, the Changi Tree was a trusted guide for explorers and returning sailors, and gave local fishermen out at sea a sense of comfort and direction. It was also a reassuring presence for residents – a symbol of strength and security that stood through the years.

Like the historic Changi Tree, Changi General Hospital (CGH) stands deeply rooted in our heritage of care. From 1935 when the Royal Air Force Hospital was built at Changi, to the merging of the old Changi Hospital with Toa Payoh Hospital, and the establishment of CGH, we have grown to meet the evolving needs of our community, anchored on strong foundations of care and innovation by generations of healthcare professionals and support staff.

Just as roots and leaves nourish a tree, our people enrich the hospital to support and care for our patients and community by continually innovating and advancing care excellence. It is this dediction that fuels the collaborative care culture on which CGH thrives.

Our journey over the past 90 years has branched outward – diversifying our services, innovating care delivery, expanding partnerships, and reaching deeper into the community we serve. Today, we drive clinical research and innovation while mentoring future generations, to seed tomorrow’s healthcare possibilities and grow as a nurturing sanctuary where patients and our people flourish.

A new Changi Tree now takes root on the home ground of our Caring General Hospital – the next chapter in the CGH story, and a renewal of our commitment to be Your Trusted Care Partner, Innovating Healthcare for Tomorrow.

A flourishing emblem of care and healing

A unique orchid with delicate blooms, the CGH Orchid – the Vandachostylis Changi General Hospital (Van. CGH) – was specially cultivated to mark our 90th anniversary, and is a tribute to nine decades of enduring care for the community.

The Van. CGH features purplish-blue blooms that grow in tight clusters, symbolising how the CGH care team works closely together to advance care excellence. Its root system extends far and strong, representing CGH's deep-rooted history and enduring bonds with the community. The distinctive colour of the blooms likely comes from anthocyanins, which also function as antioxidants that help to protect the plant from environmental stress, and is reflective of our hospital's resilience and strength.

As we look towards the future, the Van. CGH flourishes through the seasons, embodying our continued commitment to be the trusted care partner for our community, continually innovating for a healthier tomorrow.