A 200-year-old sycamore in Orkney named Scotland’s Tree of the Year
PAADVERTISINGinRead invented by TeadsADVERTISINGinRead invented by TeadsThe Big Tree in Kirkwall, Orkney, was planted around 1815
The Big Tree in Kirkwall, Orkney, was planted around 1815 by a landowner who made his fortune during the Napoleonic Wars.Once a feature of a fine walled garden, the tree now stands in the main shopping street.The 30ft sycamore was named at a Scottish Parliament reception in a competition run by The Woodland Trust to celebrate the country’s best loved trees.Woodland Trust Scotland director Carol Evans said: “The Big Tree may be a comparatively modest specimen but it has a big place in Kirkwall’s heart. A worthy winner.”
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The Big Tree may be a comparatively modest specimen but it has a big place in Kirkwall’s heart Carol Evans - Woodland Trust Scotland director
The Big Tree was planted during the Napoleonic Wars, when international trade collapsed and the kelp industry boomed on Orkney, producing ash to be made into soap and glass.Some Orcadians became very wealthy and built grand houses at Kirkwall. One of these houses had a walled garden in which three sycamores were planted.In the 1870s a new owner felled two of the trees, causing public outcry which saved the third. Then, as Kirkwall grew, the Big Tree found itself in a street.
In the late 20th century another public outcry saved the Big Tree after the local authority decided to remove it.In poor health due to its location and its hollowed out trunk, supported by a metal rod, the Big Tree is treasured by Orcadians.The winning tree receives a £1,000 care package that can be used for a health check, interpretation or educational materials, or to hold a celebratory event in its honour.Runners-up David McCabe’s Spruce in Perthshire and the Beauly Sycamore receive £500 packages.
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