The Survivor Tree: A Symbol of Hope and Inspiration After 9/11

The world was shocked when the World Trade Center was attacked, leaving unimaginable images of horror from survivors and deaths. However, a damaged Callery pear tree was found and survived at Ground Zero, now becoming an inspiration for survivors and Americans.

No one expected that a tree would survive the terror attacks at Ground Zero. According to reports, the tree was discovered with broken and burned branches. Immediately, the Department of Parks and Recreation in New York helped to remove and restore the tree from the damaged area.

Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana) is popular as an ornamental and broadleaf deciduous tree. Reports show that it can grow up to 50 feet. Unlike other trees, the pear tree can survive in areas despite the threats of pollution and challenging heat.

According to reports, the said tree was first planted in the 1970s at the World Trade Center.

The Survivor Tree

A stock photo of the 9/11 survivor tree in New York City
(Photo : by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images). The Survivor tree is an inspiration and symbol to suvivors after the 9/11 attack at the World Trade Center. When it was discovered at the Ground Zero, the tree branches were burned and broken. However, the tree broke all impossibilities by surviving, inspiring people to become resilient. The tree is known as Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana), capable to grow up to 50 feet.

The tree was rehabilitated. In 2010, it was returned to the Memorial to show as a symbol of hope, resilience, and new life. It is also a reminder of the terrors brought about by the terrorists at the World Trade Center.

Before the tree was restored, workers were concerned about the state of the tree, which severely suffered. However, the tree showed signs of recovery in 2022 after sprouting with leaves.

On September 11, 2013, a seedling program of the Survivor Tree was launched, providing seedlings to communities with tragic experiences. It helps to inspire and become resilient amidst the problem.

Now, the tree also signifies hope for people to recover and be resilient from what happened in the past.

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More Facts about Pyrus calleryana

According to reports, the Pyrus calleryana is from the family of Rosaceae. In terms of size, the tree can range from small to medium with a glossy green appearance and thornless twigs.

It is mostly planted in rural yards, suburban, and urban areas. While the tree can potentially grow quickly, the strong winds can damage it. Although it holds cultural importance, the tree can pose possible damage to natural habitats by forming large colonies. Callery pear can likely overwhelm other native plants.

In addition, the tree is believed to be native to Taiwan and China and was used for landscaping. The tree can spread when birds or other animals eat the fruits, which can be scattered in rural areas or cities.