Fifteen trees have made the cut as finalists for the European Tree of the Year contest. It's not for the oldest, biggest, or most valuable tree, but the tree with the most interesting story behind it. The tree shown here is called the Pet-oak. The common oak stands in the highway median in Breda, Netherlands.
When highway A58 was constructed in 1986, numerous oaks on the Anneville Estate had to be cut down. This oak, in the centre reservation, was the only one left standing. Close to the Belgian border, it became a landmark for many drivers on their journey. The beloved oak is now threatened with felling, thanks to plans to broaden the highway which lead to widespread protests. Out of 12 nominated Dutch trees, the 'Pet-oak' won with an overwhelming majority.
Other trees have notable stories, too, like the one that was grafted into the shape of the letter "N" to show love for a girl named Nell, and one that survived a fire and was left in the shape of bird. Many are hundreds of years old. Read all the stories and place your vote for two of the trees by Thursday, February 27. The results will be announced March 19. -via Nag on the Lake