Washington, D.C. – The iconic cherry blossom tree known as Stumpy, beloved for its sparse branches that bloom each spring, is facing its demise as part of a $113 million sea wall repair project near the National Mall. Arborists have identified Stumpy as one of 158 trees set to be removed due to its decaying interior trunk, highlighting the impact of climate change on the region’s landscape.
The National Park Service plans to cut down approximately 300 of the 3,700 trees lining the Tidal Basin reservoir to strengthen the sea walls along the reservoir and the Potomac River. Stumpy gained popularity in 2020 when a Reddit user compared its appearance to his love life, leading to widespread recognition online.
As Stumpy’s fate draws near, fans have been flocking to the Tidal Basin to catch a final glimpse of the tree that has become a symbol of resilience. Park service spokesman Mike Litterst noted a significant increase in visitors seeking out Stumpy for photos and memories, underscoring its unique place in Washington, D.C.’s landscape.
In an effort to preserve Stumpy’s legacy, the park service plans to take clippings from the tree and other cherry trees slated for removal to propagate new growth. The felled trees will be recycled into mulch to nourish the remaining trees on the National Mall, ensuring that Stumpy’s spirit lives on in future plantings.
Despite the outpouring of support for Stumpy, the sea wall repair project is deemed necessary to address the ongoing deterioration of the infrastructure along the Potomac River and the Tidal Basin. Peter Byrne, from the Georgetown Climate Center, explained that while some trees can withstand waterlogged conditions, the Japanese cherry blossom is not one of them.
The imminent loss of Stumpy and other cherry trees reflects the broader challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels in the region. While the decision to remove these iconic trees is met with sadness, it underscores the importance of safeguarding the Tidal Basin’s cultural and environmental significance in the face of changing conditions.