Stumpy, the iconic and beloved cherry tree near the Tidal Basin in D.C., may have been chopped down in May, but his legacy lives on through the efforts of the U.S. National Arboretum. The Arboretum announced that clippings from the original Stumpy have rooted into self-sustaining plants, continuing the saga of D.C.’s favorite cherry tree.
The process of cloning Stumpy involved taking clippings from the tree before it was removed from the Tidal Basin. These clippings were prepared and processed by the National Arboretum, with careful attention to detail to ensure successful propagation. The clippings were placed in a flat with soil, nutrients, and rooting hormone, then moved to a propagation greenhouse for ideal rooting conditions. After eight weeks, the clippings had established root systems and were transferred to individual pots.
While the new Stumpy clones are genetically identical to the original tree, they may not look the same due to the environmental conditions they will be planted in. The goal is to provide the new trees with ideal conditions that will promote healthy growth and prevent the issues that led to Stumpy’s unique appearance.
Stumpy became a symbol of resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, blooming each spring despite his struggling appearance. His removal earlier this year was met with sadness and mourning from the community, but it was necessary to prevent further damage to the cherry trees in the area due to flooding.
The decision to clone Stumpy instead of transplanting him was made to ensure the survival of the other trees and to give Stumpy a dignified end. Transplanting him would have likely resulted in his death due to his fragile condition. The clones currently growing in the Arboretum’s greenhouse will eventually be planted near the Tidal Basin, continuing Stumpy’s legacy in a new form.
Overall, the efforts to clone Stumpy and preserve his genetic lineage are a testament to the impact he had on the community and the importance of cherishing the beauty of nature. As the new Stumpy trees grow and bloom in the future, they will carry on the spirit of resilience and hope that Stumpy embodied during his time near the Tidal Basin.