Beech tree ‘Heart of the Dalkowskie Hills’ from Poland has won the title of the European Tree of the Year 2025. In second was the Portuguese ficus tree ‘The Lovers Banyan Tree’, followed by the pine tree ‘Pino de Juan Molinera’ from Spain. Overall, an incredible 401,262 valid votes were cast for all 15 trees in the contest in 2025.
The Polish beech tree grows in the historical park in the city of Dalków. For the local community, the tree is seen as 'a heart that unites', and tourists make wishes by throwing peanuts into a hole in the tree, believing it will make their dreams come true. This year, Poland is celebrating its fourth consecutive victory in the competition. The key to success is attributed to the local community, who nominated the tree for the contest, as well as the power of social media.
Jola Migdal from Klub Gaja, coordinator of the Tree of the Year contest in Poland, said: ‘This is our next victory in this prestigious contest and a great celebration of trees. We would like to thank everyone involved in the promotion of the Polish Beech from Dalków – the entire local community centred around this historic tree, the Polish media and all tree lovers throughout Europe. I hope that the stories of the trees taking part in the contest will inspire us to take responsible actions to protect them and preserve them for future generations.’
The majestic Portuguese Moreton Bay Fig, which earned second place in the contest, was planted in the 19th century by an aristocratic tree collector as the result of seed exchanges with the Sydney Botanical Garden. Today, it stands as an attraction in the Quinta das Lágrimas Gardens next to the Fountain of Lovers. The third place honours the Pino de Juan Molinera from Abengibre, a tree that has withstood centuries of challenges. Over the years, it has endured devastating floods, major snowstorms, and even a lightning strike, showcasing its resilience and historical significance.
The UK entry – the Skipinnish Oak – came in seventh place. The 400 year old oak stands in Lochaber, Scotland.
Picture courtesy: Marcin Kopij.
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