Magnolia grandiflora

Magnolia grandiflora at 679 Lafayette Avenue is a large evergreen tree that displays impressive white flowers during warmer months. The tree stands across from Herbert Von King Park and serves as a notable botanical feature in the urban landscape.

The tree arrived in Brooklyn in 1885 when William Lemken transported it as a seedling from North Carolina and planted it in his front yard. During the 1970s, environmental activist Hattie Carthan launched campaigns to protect it from threats of removal due to development.

The tree serves as a gathering point for neighbors who come to witness the impressive white blossoms each spring and summer. Local residents have embraced it as a symbol of their community's environmental commitment and natural heritage.

The tree is located on an accessible street in Bedford-Stuyvesant where you can view it easily from the public sidewalk. Nearby facilities include an environmental education center that provides visitors with information and context about the tree's history.

This is the only living tree in New York City to receive official landmark status from the city. This exceptional recognition makes it botanically unique among all the trees in the city.

Location: Brooklyn

Address: 679 Lafayette Avenue

GPS coordinates: 40.69050,-73.94669

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:05