Tree Information

Common Name: loblolly pine

Scientific Name: Pinus taeda

Native/Naturalized: Native to Virginia

Database ID: 565

Status: alive

National Champion: yes

Virginia Champion: yes

Trunk Girth: 188 in.

Tree Height: 115 ft.

Crown Spread: 75 ft.

Points: 322

Date Last Measured: 2026

Last Measured by: Byron Carmean, Dylan Kania, and Gary Williamson

Date First Measured: 1981

Comments:
2026 Comments: Tree is still adding trunk girth rapidly. Trunk measured at 4.5' above mid slope. It is healthy and sound. Multiple branches over 2' diameter. There appears to have been significant overestimation of tree height over the past 20 years for reasons that are unclear. The tree has no observed damaged to the peak of the crown. Current field measurement of height was cross-referenced with a recent Lidar scan. Height currently is not much different from original nomination in 1981. Trees of this stature grow very slowly in height. It is possible that the original height was likewise overestimated.
2024 Comments: Recognized as national champion.
2020 Comments: Previously measured by Robbie Lewis and Andy Teeling. Trunk: 184", Height: 134', Crown: 90', Total Points: 341.
2017 Comments: Was dethroned as national champion.
2006 Comments: Measured by Jeff Kirwan. Trunk: 191". Height and crown not remeasured from 2003. Score: 343 points.
2003 Comments: Measured by forester Raymond W. Nelling. Trunk: 180", Height: 135', Crown: 68', Score: 332 points. The tree appears to be in very good shape. Within past several years, several large lower limbs have broken off, but these do not appear to have been detrimental to the tree. The site where the tree is situated is protected because of the adjacent creek. No development is planned that will affect the tree.
1981 Comments: First nominated in May 1981 by foresters Richard L. Folk and John A. Johnson, Jr. At that time, the owners were Mrs. Estelle and Mr. George Tankard (Titatree Hill). Tree was described as very healthy. Trunk: 180", Height: 114', Crown: 94', Score: 318 points. Immediately recognized as state champion at that time.