Trump plans to remove historic White House magnolia tree planted in 1800s
Controversy grows as 200-year-old tree linked to Andrew Jackson is set to be removed for safety reasons
A Southern magnolia tree planted by President Andrew Jackson in the 1800s will soon be removed from the White House grounds following an announcement by Donald Trump. The tree, which has stood for nearly 200 years, is said to be a safety hazard.
The White House is more than just the residence of U.S. presidents. It’s a national symbol, rich with tradition and full of stories from the country’s past. One of those stories is about a Southern magnolia tree believed to have been planted by the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, nearly 200 years ago.
According to legend, Jackson brought seeds from his Tennessee home, the Hermitage, and planted the magnolias in memory of his wife, Rachel, who passed away shortly before he took office. The trees have since become an iconic part of the White House’s South Lawn.
In 2006, the National Park Service officially labeled them as “Witness Trees,” recognizing their presence during countless historic events — from wartime decisions to presidential speeches and family celebrations.
Trump says tree is now “dangerous”
On his social media platform Truth Social, former President Donald Trump announced that one of the Southern magnolias will be cut down next week. He stated the decision was made with the help of White House staff and the National Park Service, calling it part of broader efforts to “preserve and protect history.”
“The bad news is that everything must come to an end,” Trump wrote. “This tree is in terrible condition, a very dangerous safety hazard, at the White House entrance, no less, and must now be removed.”
Trump added that a new tree will be planted in its place and that the wood from the original tree will be saved for future “high and noble purposes.”
A tree that outlived expectations
Southern magnolias usually live for 80 to 120 years, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The fact that this one has lasted nearly two centuries is impressive. However, experts say the tree’s age and soft wood could indeed pose safety concerns.
One tree expert on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “These [magnolia] trees have notoriously soft wood that can become dry and brittle with age. I wouldn’t be anywhere near that thing.”
Still, many people are saddened by the news, saying the tree is a historic icon that deserves more effort to be saved.
Mixed reactions from the public
Not surprisingly, the announcement sparked a wave of reactions online. Some accused Trump of “rewriting history,” while others took a more practical stance.
“Before they take it out, they should take a bunch of cuttings and propagate those. Baby them, grow them, then replant a dozen around the White House lawn,” one user suggested.
Others reflected on the tree’s long legacy and expressed hope that its wood would be used thoughtfully. One commenter noted, “It’s a very pretty light-colored wood, but it’s not very durable. Hopefully, it finds a meaningful second life.”
A lasting legacy, even after removal
Though the original magnolia may soon be gone, its legacy is expected to live on — through preserved wood, new plantings, and the stories it continues to inspire. Like many aspects of American history, the tree reminds us that even living things can become powerful symbols.
Removing a tree that has watched over two centuries of presidential history isn’t just a landscaping decision — it’s a moment that makes many pause and reflect on the passage of time, the fragility of nature, and the importance of memory.
Whether you view it as a necessary removal or a loss of national heritage, one thing is clear — this magnolia tree has witnessed more history than most people ever will. And even in its final days, it continues to remind us of the living roots beneath America’s past.
