Historic Jackson Magnolia Tree Removed for Safety

The historic 'Jackson Magnolia' tree on the White House grounds, believed to have been planted by President Andrew Jackson in memory of his wife, was removed due to safety concerns about its structural integrity. This nearly 200-year-old tree had surpassed its typical lifespan and posed a risk of injury due to potential failure, leading to its assessment and removal by the National Park Service and White House officials. President Trump announced that a sapling descended from the original tree would be planted in its place, while the wood from the original will be preserved for future use. The tree had been supported by a metal pole and ties since 1984 and had suffered damage from a plane crash in 1994 and pruning in 2017. Its removal marks the end of its presence as a significant historical and aesthetic landmark on the White House grounds. The decision involved consultations among several agencies and aimed to prevent any potential harm from the failing structure.