9,500-Year-Old Tree Found In Sweden Is The World's Oldest Tree

The fir was discovered on a mountain in national park in central Sweden. Although the trunk is much younger, root system is at least 9,500 years. The tree took root at the end of the last ice age, but could be older. The tree sprung up in 7550 B.C., making it older than recorded history.

Previous researchers considered the Norway spruce species to be a relative newcomer to Sweden, with theories postulating the tree migrated into the area around 2,000 years ago. Trees much older than 10,000 years would be practically impossible in Sweden, because until around 11,000 years ago the area was in the grip of a world-wide ice age. If you're ever in Sweden's Dalarna province it's worth a visit as it's a chance to see one of the oldest living trees on the planet. There is a small path leading up towards the tree, however, it is unmarked, as park rangers do not want to encourage large groups of tourists to surround the tree.