First Sycamore Gap sapling (‘Tree of Hope’) to be planted in Wales takes root in Cardiff

Grown as part of the National Trust’s ‘Trees of Hope’ initiative, the sapling is one of 49 given by the Trust to individuals, communities and organisations across the UK.

The trees will grow to create a legacy for the Sycamore Gap tree, which stood next to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland for over 120 years before it was illegally felled in September 2023.

Nearly 500 applications were received for the 49 saplings – one to represent each foot in height that the tree was at the time of felling.

During a special event at Rhiwbina Primary School the sapling was planted by pupils and staff, including the former Year 6 pupils who originally applied for one of the trees when the initiative launched last September. The pupil’s successful application told of how the story of the Sycamore Gap tree had been used as an inspiration for learning about the importance trees play in our world.

School pupil Carys, age 11 said: “We worked really hard on our application because we want to give the Sycamore Gap sapling a home where it can grow safely. To us, it isn’t just a tree- it’s a sign that hope can grow back, even after something is lost. It’s exciting to think that one day it might stand as tall and proud as the original tree and when future generations see it we’ll be able to say we helped plant its roots here in Rhiwbina.”

Oliver age 11 added, “We were shocked when we heard the news that the Sycamore Gap Tree had been cut down and couldn’t believe it when we won the competition to receive a sapling. We are really excited to be part of the celebrations today”.

The 49 saplings, now between 4 and 6 feet tall, were grown from seed and material rescued from the felled tree and have been carefully nurtured at the National Trust’s Plant Conservation Centre.

Headteacher Carol Harry added: “I am so proud of my pupils and Year 6 teachers who saw the opportunity to be Guardians of the Planet. As a school we are thrilled to bring the legacy of the Sycamore Gap Tree to Wales and our community of Rhiwbina”.

Also in attendance at the planting was Lizzie Smith Jones from National Trust Cymru who said: “It’s a privilege to attend the first planting of a ‘Tree of Hope’ in Wales. To be able to keep the story of the Sycamore Gap alive in all four corners of the UK and in so many different settings is a fitting tribute, and we hope that, just like the original tree, this young sapling will touch many people’s lives.”

Later in the winter a further two recipients of ‘Trees of Hope’ in Wales, Gower College Swansea and Better Life Appeal in Cardiff, will plant their saplings. Meanwhile, a further three saplings will be planted in each of the three Welsh National Parks.

For more information and to find out where all the 49 ‘Trees of Hope’ saplings are being planted visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/saplings.