THE LEAFLET

Massive Oak tree submitted by Sam.

The search to find the largest tree in Washington, DC is well underway, and as the search intensifies, tree enthusiasts across the District have been fervently submitting their contenders for consideration. These remarkable specimens stand strong and tall in our urban landscape, providing shade and demonstrating the enduring power and beauty of nature within a busy city.

We’re here to share some updates, and let you know that the search is still on! While these may be the largest submissions to hit our inbox, the biggest one may still be out there – so, grab your string, measuring tape, (and maybe our Tree Species Guide for fun) and keep looking!

First up, Faith sent in a beautiful Silver Maple named Howard! A fascinating fact about Silver Maple trees is that they are among the fastest-growing maple species. Known for their rapid growth rate, these trees can reach impressive heights in a relatively short period. In ideal conditions, Silver maples can grow up to 2-3 feet per year, making them a popular choice for homeowners. Howard has a circumference of 161” (DBH 51.27). Huge shoutout to Faith’s neighbor, Juliana, for helping Howard reach his full potential! Thank you again to Faith and Shae!

Elizabeth submitted a Willow Oak with a circumference of 167” (DBH 53.18). Thank you to Bill for allowing and even helping Elizabeth measure your tree – you’re a great sport! Willow Oaks are known for their remarkable longevity. These majestic trees have a lifespan that can extend well over 100 years, with some specimens even reaching several centuries old.

Our friend, Dolores, submitted this gorgeous Chinese pagoda that has a circumference of 180” (DBH 57.32). Chinese Pagoda trees are known for their stunning clusters of fragrant white flowers, which bloom in late summer. These flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to the tree’s appeal. This tree can be found near the Trinity University entrance driveway.  Thanks for the wonderful submission, Dolores!

Sam sent us this amazing Oak tree that he found next to the Michigan Park Community Playground. The Oak measures in with a circumference of 184” (DBH 58.6). There are approximately 600 recognized species of oak trees (genus Quercus) worldwide. The species within the oak genus exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including variations in leaf shape, acorn size, and growth habit. Shout out to Sam for sending this one our way!

Breaching into insanely large tree territory – Lynn submitted her backyard Willow Oak with a circumference measuring in at a whopping 218” (DBH 69.43). Their arborist estimates the age of the tree to be around 100 years old, with a height of over 100 feet! Absolutely incredible, thank you, Lynn, for sharing your tree with us!

Lastly, the largest tree to be submitted to us so far – John sent in an arboretum Willow Oak with a massive circumference of 271” (DBH 86.3). With the tree being under the care of the National Arboretum, it’s no surprise that it was able to grow and thrive to be as large as it is today! Thanks, John, for sending this monumental tree our way. 

Massive Willow Oak in the National Arboretum, submitted by John.

But as we said, the search isn’t over! You still have until next Friday, July 28th to find the largest tree and make your submission. And in case you need a reminder – the person who submits the largest tree will receive a $100 gift certificate to our store (≥100” = heritage tree) and $44 for the runner-up (44″ to 99.9″ is a special tree)! Casey Trees staff will verify the winning trees’ measurements. More information on how to measure your submissions can be found here. Keep up the great work!