Balderschwang yew, Ancient yew tree in Balderschwang, Germany.
The Balderschwang yew is an ancient tree with two hollow trunks that stands on a mountain pasture at about 1,150 meters elevation in Bavaria. Both trunks belong to a single root system, which explains how they developed as separate stems from one tree.
Scientists estimate the tree is between 600 and 1,000 years old, making it a living record of the mountain region's long history. DNA testing confirmed that both trunks originate from the same organism, supporting the age estimates.
The tree holds special meaning as a natural landmark that draws hikers exploring the mountain landscape. Local people view it as a symbol of resilience that has witnessed generations of life in this region.
The tree sits along the Balderschwang panoramic trail, which runs northeast of the village and is accessible by foot. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on mountain terrain, and bring weather protection since conditions can change quickly at this elevation.
The tree intrigues scientists because despite its two separate trunks, it is genetically one individual organism. This rare growth pattern shows how a tree can adapt to harsh mountain conditions while remaining connected through a shared root system.
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