Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Santa Barbara

Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Santa Barbara (must see)

The Moreton Bay Fig Tree is popularly believed to be the United States' biggest fig tree. This tree has its humble origins in a seedling planted by a young girl in 1876. A friend of this girl transplanted the young tree to its present location. Since taking root at its location, the tree has thrived due to the weather.

This tree achieved National Historic Landmark status in 1970, and the City of Santa Barbara has owned the land where the tree sites since 1976. The tree has a listing on the California Register of Big Trees. This tree's height totals 80 feet, with a 176-foot crown spread. A chain barrier at the roots helps provide protection for the tree.

The site where the tree grows is also the site where explorer El Capitan Gaspar de Portolá and his crew camped in 1769. These Spaniards' explorations played a leading role in establishing California as a colony.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Santa Barbara. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Moreton Bay Fig Tree on Map

Sight Name: Moreton Bay Fig Tree
Sight Location: Santa Barbara, USA (See walking tours in Santa Barbara)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Santa Barbara, California

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Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles