US president Donald Trump on Tuesday planted a new magnolia tree at the White House, replacing the historic Jackson Magnolia that was recently taken down due to safety risks.
Trump shared the news on his social media platform, adding, “We have a beautiful tree now at the White House.”
The media was not allowed to cover the event, but a short video was later posted online showing Trump and longtime grounds superintendent Dale Haney shovelling dirt. “Dale’s been here 53 years. He’s fantastic,” Trump said.
The original southern magnolia had stood near the South Portico of the White House for almost two centuries. It was often seen during official events and visits from world leaders, reported Associated Press. Trump had announced on March 30 that the tree was in “terrible condition” and posed a safety hazard.
The National Park Service said that, according to folklore, president Andrew Jackson brought the seeds of the tree from his home near Nashville, Tennessee. They were reportedly planted in memory of his wife, Rachel, who passed away just before he became president in 1829.
It further confirmed that the new 12-year-old sapling planted in its place is a direct descendant of the original Jackson Magnolia. The sapling was specially grown at an offsite greenhouse.
Parts of the removed tree will be preserved for archival purposes, while other wood may be used for future projects, Trump said. The original tree had previously been damaged in a 1994 plane crash and was heavily pruned in 2017.
