Trees are one of the earth’s essential living elements, providing life-giving oxygen and healthful shades of green. They provide a home to creatures and serve as a protective layer for the soil. Out of all the trees, there are the ever-lasting giants or living fossils that are still standing firmly and gracefully bearing witness to the history of the world. These massive ancient trees have witnessed everything, from the evolution of mankind, to major natural disasters. In this blog, we’ll explore the oldest trees on the planet, taking a closer look at their beauty, ecological importance, and the fascinating stories behind them.
The Methuselah Tree: Located in the Great Basin National Park of Nevada, The Methuselah Tree is one of the oldest known living trees on Earth, estimated to be around 4,852 years old. This old bristlecone pine is a discovery that cannot be missed, standing among other living fossils, including The Prometheus Tree which was cut down in 1964.
If the Methuselah Tree could speak, it could narrate to us many stories of the earth’s history. The Tree’s surroundings may seem barren, rough, and colorless, yet its pine green foliage provides a unique and stunning beauty that cannot be overlooked.
The Llangernyw Yew: For those of you who are fans of Yew trees, the Llangernyw Yew ought to be on your list. Aptly located in the graveyard of St Dygain’s Church in Wales, this particular yew tree is estimated to be over 4,000 years old. Its sturdy branches are sometimes even larger than the tree itself, giving refuge to hundreds of various species of insects, and mammals.
What’s more? The Llangernyw Yew also tells a tale of love. With its growth dating back to the Bronze Age, this tree has witnessed numerous generations of couples who met under its shade and those who parted with vows.
The Jurupa Oak: If you are interested in something closer to home, Jurupa Oak will blow your mind. It’s located in Jurupa Mountain, California and is believed to be around 13,000 years old, making it one of the oldest trees in North America. This oak tree is truly a breathtaking sight to see. With massive branches leaning out from the trunk, the Jurupa Oak is considered to have served as a sacred spot for tribes over the centuries.
The General Sherman: The General Sherman Tree is arguably one of the most famous trees in the world, located at Sequoia National Park in California. It’s named for Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman and is the largest tree by volume on the planet, standing at 274.9 feet tall with a circumference of 79 feet. Scientists believe that the tree has been around for over 2,500 years. If you happen to stand in front of this after a hike up the Trail of 100 giants, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe and amazement before it.
The Tane Mahuta: The Tane Mahuta, also referred to as the “Lord of the Forest,” is located in Waipoua Forest in New Zealand. The Maori people of New Zealand consider this Kauri tree to be sacred, believed to hold the manners of their gods, hence its name translation “Lord of the Forest.” The Tane Mahuta is around 2,500 years old and is the largest kauri tree, standing at 52 m tall and having a diameter of 13.77 m. With its impressive size and the character inscribed on the trunk, it’s hard not to be bowled over by this giant.
Exploring the oldest trees on the planet is a fruitful endeavor, not just from a historic sense, but also because these ancient trees serve as teachers of life, resilience, and wisdom. They are a testament to how Mother Earth has managed to maintain balance and perseverance. Looking closer at them, beyond their staggering sizes and the beauty of their unique foliage, it’s hard to deny that they should be cherished and preserved for the sake of future generations.
