The Oxford Botanic Garden was founded in 1621, and is the oldest botanic garden in Great Britain. It contains many beautiful specimens, and among these is an unassuming yew tree.

This tree was planted in 1645 by the first Curator, Jacob Bobart, amid the English civil war. Since then, the world has seen the rise and fall of countries, empires, and grand architecture. Technological and scientific endeavours have improved the quality of life everywhere. It has seen great strides in civil rights, and weathered through floods, freezes, and droughts.

This tree has seen remarkable change over the centuries, and yet at 375 years, it is still young. This species can grow for thousands of years. As a natural monument to both change and consistency, who could guess what it might witness in the future?

On average a tree grows 2.5cm wider each year. Give a tree a hug- if your fingers can just about touch, then the tree could be around 60 years old, maybe old enough to be your grandparent!