Historic Jackson Magnolia Replaced with Descendant Sapling at White House
President Trump oversaw the planting of a 12-year-old sapling grown from the nearly 200-year-old tree removed due to safety concerns.
- The Jackson Magnolia, planted by President Andrew Jackson in memory of his wife Rachel nearly two centuries ago, was removed on April 7, 2025, after expert assessments deemed it a safety hazard.
- A descendant sapling, cultivated by the National Park Service, was planted on April 8, 2025, to ensure continuity of the tree's historical legacy.
- The decision to remove the tree followed evaluations by arborists and consultations among the National Park Service, White House officials, and the U.S. Secret Service, citing risks of structural failure.
- Remnants of the original tree will be preserved by the Office of the Curator for historical and commemorative purposes, as announced by the White House.
- President Trump participated in a ceremonial planting of the new sapling, emphasizing efforts to preserve and honor the heritage of the White House grounds.