NPR

Portions Of Ailing White House Magnolia Removed Over Safety Concerns

The Jackson Magnolia, one of the oldest and storied trees on the White House lawn, just got a major trim. NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with historian Jonathan Pliska about the tree's significance.

A tree known as the Jackson Magnolia has stood on the grounds of the White House for nearly 200 years and stood witness to 39 presidencies.

But Wednesday, it got a significant cutback.

After reviewing reports of the magnolia's poor health, first lady Melania Trump approved the removal of a large portion of it. A White House spokeswoman CNN that

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readAmerican Government
House Foreign Aid Bills Advance With Democrats' Help; Johnson May Still Be In Peril
With Democratic support, the legislation overcomes a major procedural hurdle and is expected to head to a weekend vote by the full House.
NPR3 min read
A Cartoonist's Guide To Navigating 'Normal'
Cartoonist Liana Finck has spent years learning the "rules" of social interactions. She's not convinced. Her comics poke fun at the contradictions and absurdities of daily life and modern parenting.
NPR4 min read
From Jailhouse Melodies To Vanishing Salmon, Rejuvenate Your Listening History
Enjoy the spring bloom, get outside, listen to a new podcast! The NPR One team has gathered a few returning favorites as well as some fresh releases from across public media.

Related Books & Audiobooks