NPS / Kelsey Graczyk Some of the trees on the White House Grounds date back to the 1800s. The oldest is a southern magnolia attributed to Andrew Jackson. Legend holds that President Jackson himself planted the stately southern magnolias located immediately west of the South Portico, in memory of his wife, Rachel, who died just weeks before his swearing-in ceremony in 1829. The trees around the White House are both symbolic and practical. They may symbolize friendship between nations, or a leader's intent to build a lasting legacy for future generations. The trees serve an aesthetic purpose, each lending its own unique characteristics of shape, color, flowers, and more, in spectacular variety. The trees provide homes for animals on the White House grounds; Theodore Roosevelt himself tallied a list of 92 birds he saw in Washington, DC, and at the White House in 1908. Finally, the trees also provide security, privacy, and comfort for the people who live, work, and visit here. Want to see the trees for yourself? While many of these special trees can be seen from outside the perimeter fence, if you want to get a closer look, visit during the spring and fall White House garden tours or the Easter Egg Roll, when the grounds are open to explore (tickets are required). This map shows locations of a wide variety of trees planted by and in honor of presidents of the United States and first ladies from the 1800s to today. The trees are located throughout the grounds surrounding the White House. Several gardens are also on the White House grounds. 2009 - Today
1979 - 2008
1978 and Earlier
Commemorative Trees
Photo Gallery The White House and President’...32 Images Explore the White House grounds and learn about the presidential commemorative tree plantings. Explore more
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Last updated: March 19, 2025