The Turkish Consulate has given the people of Cape Town a Turkish Oak after the city’s own magnificent tree, estimated to be around 80 to 100 years old, toppled in a recent storm.
The former Turkish Oak (Quercus cerris) was located at Ardene Gardens, Claremont and had fallen as a result of the Cape storm. The incident was reported to the City’s recreation and parks department on the morning of October 4. The tree had been obstructing the Claremont Main Road, affecting incoming and outgoing traffic.
The tree was one of only 13 champion trees in Cape Town (recognised for its exceptional size, age, aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, historic value, or tourist attraction). Champion trees are protected under the National Forests Act.
At the time, Mayco member for Community Services…
