The world's oldest living tree discovered in Sweden? A critical review

Abstract

In 2008, there was news that in Sweden a 9550-year-old spruce was discovered which would accordingly be the oldest living tree in the world. The pros and cons of the claim are discussed in this review based on the original publications by the discoverers of the spruce. The findings presented here support the conclusion that spruces in the Swedish mountains may reach 100–600 years of age but not nearly 10,000 years. There is neither evidence of genetic continuity between dead wood remains discovered beneath the allegedly 9550-year-old tree and the living tree itself. Nor is there evidence of a clonal origin of the spruce. On the contrary, it must be assumed that it reproduces sexually. In fact, there are good reasons to endorse the generally accepted view that Great Basin bristlecone pines are the oldest living trees on earth.