I’ve always been a tree guy. I don’t just admire them; I plant them, take care of them, and even carry some family history through them. One of my favorite trees is the “Paper Shell” pecan tree in my front yard in Abilene, Texas.
It grew from a branch I took from my grandpa’s old pecan tree, which was planted way back in the early 1920s. That tree is pushing 100 years old, which I thought was pretty impressive – until I learned about a tree in Texas that’s been alive for more than 2,000 years!
So, What’s the Oldest Tree in Texas?
I remember one time, during a conference call, someone brought up America’s most historic trees. That got me thinking: Could one of my Grandpa’s trees be the oldest in Texas? Well, I found out we’re not even close, but we do have a tree that’s pretty famous.
Say Hello to the “Big Tree” in Rockport
The title of Texas’s oldest tree goes to a coastal live oak known as the “Big Tree”. It’s found in Goose Island State Park near Rockport, Texas. This tree isn’t just old; it’s a living legend. Experts believe it’s over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living oak trees in all of North America.
This giant tree is a Quercus virginiana, which stands over 45 feet tall, has a trunk circumference of more than 45 feet, and branches that stretch wider than most houses. Through hurricanes, droughts, and changes in history, this tree has survived it all.
A Tree Rooted in Lore and Legend
The Big Tree isn’t just ancient; it’s part of Texas folklore. Some stories say the Karankawa tribe held tribal councils and ceremonies under its branches…