Tree stories

The roots of childhood (1x3)

Yayınlanma tarihi: Eki 28, 2015

Despite their very different climatic situations, these two venerable trees have defied the passage of time. The thin, isolated Spruce tree, standing tall on the Fulufjället mountains, in the central province of Dalarma close to the Norwegian border, is said to be the world’s oldest tree! Carbon dating confirms that its roots are indeed over 9,550 years old! (although its trunk is only a few centuries old). Geologist Leif Kullman, who discovered the tree, called it “Old Tjikko” in homage to his deceased dog. Scrawny in appearance, it attracts the attention not only of the scientific community, who ponder the mysterious phenomenon, but also that of curious visitors, who organise walks to it. The Oletta Olive Tree is a nigh on thousand-year-old ancestor that enjoys excellent health! It still produces 300 kilos of olives a year, which are harvested in winter using nets fixed to the base of the tree. The tree is the pride of its owners and local inhabitants of the surrounding area, and on account of its impressive measurements (a 300m2 crown!), it is said to be the island’s most imposing specimen.