WASHINGTON — A nearly 200-year-old tree on the White House grounds is set to be removed due to its declining condition, President Donald Trump announced on Sunday.
The historic southern magnolia, located near the curved portico on the building’s south side, has long served as a backdrop for ceremonial welcomes of foreign dignitaries and the president’s departures on the Marine One helicopter.
According to historical accounts on the National Park Service website, the tree is believed to have been planted by President Andrew Jackson, who reportedly brought its seeds from his Nashville, Tennessee home. Jackson is said to have planted the tree in honor of his wife, Rachel, who passed away shortly before he assumed the presidency in 1829.
President Trump stated on his social media platform, Truth Social, “The unfortunate reality is that all things eventually come to an end. This tree has severely deteriorated and poses a grave safety risk, particularly at the White House Entrance, and it must be removed.”
The removal is scheduled to take place next week, and Trump added that a “very beautiful” new tree will be planted in its place.
Trump also mentioned that the wood from the tree might be repurposed for other significant uses.
The magnolia was extensively pruned in 2017 during Trump’s first term in office. The tree also suffered damage back in 1994 when a small Cessna airplane crashed into the South Lawn, ultimately colliding with the White House.