Big Trees of the Arb

During the summertime, 450 plant species begin to come alive, attracting an assortment of wildlife and decorating the landscapes with lively colors.

Of the 450 plant species within the  living collections database , roughly 110 are trees. But only a few tree species grow to become notably large. Showcased below are among the most captivating Big Trees. Scroll down to begin the journey!

Big Trees are key components of a healthy forest ecosystem and provide the following ecological services:

• deliver oxygen into the air and sequester carbon from the atmosphere
• promote species diversity and increase biodiversity 
• provide shelter, food, and habitat for wildlife
• drop leaves that decompose and recycle nutrients into the soil 
• create shade that cools the surrounding air

Explore the interactive maps below for location and other information (diameter, height, etc) on the photographed tree specimen.

How does a tree from a small seed get to be so big? The key is in their genetics. Trees that surpass other ones in height, diameter, or age may have genes that cause them to be more resilient to environmental changes. But whether or not trees at Matthaei-Nichols reach a high life expectancy, the environment and the flora and fauna are still impacted.

Only 16 trees were featured here. Come and explore the rest of MBGNA and browse through other applications  here  or plan a visit below!

Tree Descriptions: Michigan Trees by Burton V. Barnes and Warren H. Wagner, Jr.,  Missouri Botanical Gardens , and  Morton Arboretum 

Story Map Author: Erika Perez, 2019 Doris Duke Conservation Scholar

Photo Credits: Erika Perez

Funding for this application was provided in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Consultation and guidance were provided by Maricela Avalos and Michael Kost.