Ronald W. Reagan – Willow Oak

Ronald Reagan throws a shovelful of dirt on a tree at the White House. — Courtesy Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum / NARA

Quercus phellos

October 24, 1988

President Ronald W. Reagan planted a willow oak tree on the South Grounds center panel on October 24, 1988. The oak was a gift from the American Association of Nurserymen (AAN) and replaced a Scarlet Oak planted at this same spot in 1935 by the Olmsted brothers and during President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration (1933-1945). Participants assisting the President included AAN President Bill Scarff, AAN Executive Vice President Larry Scovotto, White House Superintendent Irvin Williams, and guests.