Solihull Tree Wardens

Solihull Tree Wardens Protecting, planting and promoting local trees, hedgerows and woodland

Oldest Tree in Solihull

Octopus Sweet Chestnut

The Octopus Sweet Chestnut is one of Solihull’s most historic and significant trees.View on map

Elmdon Park in Solihull contains an Ancient Sweet Chestnut affectionately known locally as “The Octopus Tree”. It was planted in approximately 1518. Scientists have been able to discover the tree’s true age by counting the ‘growth rings’ – dark circular lines which are produced every year in the trunk.

Solihull council has recognised its significance, granting it protected status and safeguarding it with its own fence. A sign on the fence gives a timeline of historical moments the tree has lived through. It states: ‘If only the tree could talk, what a story it might tell!’

Octopus Sweet Chestnut in Elmdon Park Solihull

A Living Part of Solihull’s History

The Octopus Sweet Chestnut is often described as an ancient witness to Solihull’s changing landscape.

Standing on the top of the hill in Elmdon Park it has watched Solihull develop for 500 years. First planted in the reign of Henry VIII during his marriage to Catharine of Aragon, this tree has seen incredible history including the Gunpowder Plot, the reigns of Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria, and has survived two world wars. During the Second World War the tree escaped the bombing which landed on Elmdon in November 1940, killing several nearby residents.

Locally it has seen the erection of Elmdon Manor in 1785 with it's large walled garden; the Manor's demolition in 1956; and the creation of St. Nicholas Church in 1780. With views far across Solihull and Birmingham it currently overlooks the JLR factory.

Why the Octopus Sweet Chestnut Matters

  • It is one of Solihull’s oldest known trees
  • It forms part of the borough’s local heritage
  • It provides a visible connection between past and present
  • It highlights the value of ancient and veteran trees
  • It helps raise awareness of significant trees in Solihull

Ancient Trees and Local Heritage

Ancient and veteran trees are valuable not only because of their age, but also because of the habitats they provide and the history they represent.

Older trees can support a wide range of wildlife, including insects, birds, fungi and other organisms that depend on mature tree features such as hollowing, deadwood and textured bark.

Historic tree in Solihull
Octopus Sweet Chestnut in Elmdon Park

Protecting Significant Trees

Significant trees help shape the identity of local places. They can become landmarks, meeting points, wildlife habitats and important reminders of the natural history of an area.

By recognising and recording trees such as the Octopus Sweet Chestnut, communities can better understand their value and help ensure they are respected and protected. In 2018, the Elmdon community turned out to celebrate the 500th birthday of one of it’s oldest residents. the Octopus Tree.

Octopus Sweet Chestnut in Elmdon Park Solihull

Ancient Tree Inventory

Use the Ancient Tree Inventory to find ancient and veteran trees recorded across the UK.

View Inventory

Tree Trails

Explore local tree trails and tree-focused walks around Solihull.

View Tree Trails