Discover the 12 Oldest Trees on Earth That Have Stood the Test of Time
These majestic trees must be protected to protect the past and future generations. According to a National Geographic report, the oldest known tree, a bristlecone pine named Methuselah, is over 4,800 years old and resides in California’s White Mountains. Far from being dead and gone, this ancient tree maintains its life in harsh conditions and is a metaphor for endurance and vitality.
Come along as we visit 12 of the oldest trees on Earth, notable survivors of the centuries.
Methuselah — The Great Ancient Sentinel
Methuselah, a Great Basin Bristlecone Pine, is approximately 4,800 years old and located in a hidden grove of California’s White Mountains. Dubbed the “oldest living tree,” the U.S. Forest Service keeps its exact location secret to protect it from vandalism.
Methuselah grew long before the pyramids at Giza were built, making it a modern-day relic that stands tall against the passage of time! They can endure such harsh conditions because of their slow growth rate and genetic adaptation. No doubt, these trees have become some of the living organisms that have adapted to live in harsh environments.
Castagno dei Cento Cavalli
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, the Castagno dei Cento Cavalli, or “Chestnut of the Hundred Horses,” is renowned as one of the oldest and largest trees in the world (2000 to 4000 years old).
The name of this ancient sweet chestnut tree comes from a local legend that says that a queen and her hundred knights took shelter from a storm, hence the name. It is now regarded as a magnificent monument, a symbol of its endurance and history that draws tourists worldwide to wonder at its greatness.
Llangernyw Yew — The Welsh Evergreen Wonder
Nestled in the small village of Llangernyw, Wales, this yew tree is estimated to be between 4,000 and 5,000 years old, though its exact age remains unverified.
According to a BBC Science report, the yew is deeply intertwined with Celtic mythology and stands in a graveyard—a setting befitting its mysterious, almost timeless presence. Even at its great age, this yew maintains resistance to time by growing and producing brand-new branches.
Sarv-e Abarqu — Iran’s Living Monument
As an Iranian national treasure, the Zoroastrian Sarv is a 4,000-year-old cypress tree in Abarkuh, Iran. This remarkable tree existed during the formative years of Zoroastrianism’s development before it grew into one of our oldest religious systems.
The tree’s branches stretch wide, creating a shaded oasis amidst the arid desert landscape. People respect this tree because it has reached an astonishing age and is a cultural and religious symbol.
Old Tjikko — The Eternal Clonal Spruce
Though it stands atop Sweden’s Fulufjället Mountains, Old Tjikko is a clonal colony aged about 9,550 years instead of a single tree.
The root network continuously produces new stalks, establishing Old Tjikko as one of Earth’s oldest living beings. Carbon dating tests performed in the laboratory authenticate the extraordinary age determination. Old Tjikko survives in challenging conditions, demonstrating how nature thrives against adversity.
Alerce Milenario (Gran Abuelo) — Chile’s Patagonian Ancestor
Gran Abuelo, a Patagonian cypress, is located and is estimated to be between 2,400 and 5,484 years old, depending on the calculation method, based on a report by BBC Science Focus.
This giant evergreen plant has survived various volcanic events and environmental changes, making it one of South America’s oldest natural symbols. The cypress displays a vibrant, deep red bark, which enhances its spectacular look.
Olive Tree of Vouves
The olive tree found at Vouves on Crete claims one of the longest lifespans for an olive species globally. Experts estimate its age range from more than 2000 to 3000 years old, while others propose it could be older.
The tree has reached old age yet remains productive, producing olives, highlighting its survival power and living strength. As evidenced by its weathered and hollow core, the tree has evolved into an agricultural timepiece of the Mediterranean environment.
Scientists recognize the Olive Tree of Vouves as a natural monument because it represents long-lasting endurance.
El Árbol del Tule — The Mighty Mexican Cypress
The giant El Árbol del Tule stands in Oaxaca, Mexico, and holds the title for the living tree that once had the broadest base globally.
The exact age of this tree is yet unknown, but experts believe it exceeds two millennia. In its incredible state, the Montezuma cypress impresses people with its ancient age and vast, finely textured trunk. Local Zapotec people regard the tree as a sacred location essential to their traditional ceremonies.
Tāne Mahuta — New Zealand’s Forest King
Located in the Waipoua Forest of New Zealand, Tāne Mahuta, or “Lord of the Forest,” is estimated to be 2,000 years old. According to The New Zealand Tree Register, the largest living kauri tree is a sacred symbol for New Zealand’s Māori people and an essential component of national biodiversity.
The tree takes its name from Māori mythology because Tāne was honored as the forest deity. This tree remains unparalleled in its size and stunning appearance.
Jomon Sugi — Japan’s Mysterious Elder
According to researchers, Jomon Sugi is on Yakushima Island and is estimated to be over 2,000 years old, potentially up to 7,000 years old. Both scientists and pilgrims consider the misty area surrounding its towering presence sacred.
The tree has been damaged due to continuous tourist activities and changing climate conditions. Still, efforts are underway to safeguard and preserve this ancient giant, a powerful reminder of the delicate balance within our natural world.
Ancient Bristlecone Pines (Unnamed)
Beyond Methuselah, several other unnamed Bristlecone Pines in California’s Inyo National Forest are estimated to be as old as more than 4,000 years, according to the United States Department of Agriculture( U.S Forest Service).
The oldest trees in existence today manage to survive in severe conditions that humans would deem too harsh for life. Their deformed and rugged trunks demonstrate their ability to survive rough environmental events.
The Bristlecone Pines without names act as critical natural indicators to understand the force of natural processes and the durability of these prehistoric trees.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi — The Sacred Fig of Sri Lanka
This sacred fig, propagated from the tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment, is over 2,300 years old and recognized as the ‘oldest tree planted by human, as recorded by Guiness World Record.’ It is a cultural and spiritual landmark located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Read More:
