Trump Will Help Plant A Sapling To Replace A Historic White House Tree Cut Down Over Safety Concerns

President Donald Trump was set Tuesday to help plant a young Magnolia tree on the South Grounds to replace a nearly 200-year-old predecessor that was removed due to safety concerns presented by its deteriorating condition.

The Republican president had announced March 30 on his social media platform that the tree, known as the Jackson Magnolia, was in "terrible condition, a very dangerous safety hazard, at the White House Entrance, no less, and must now be removed."

The famous southern magnolia had stood for decades near the west side of the South Portico of the White House. It's where presidents and prime ministers often are welcomed on their visits, as well as where the president himself exits to board the Marine One helicopter or returns after a trip.

According to the National Park Service website , "folklore tells us" that President Andrew Jackson brought the tree's seeds from his home near Nashville, Tennessee. The seeds apparently were planted in honor of his wife Rachel, who died shortly before he took office in 1829.

A 12-year-old sapling that is a direct descendant of the Jackson Magnolia will be planted in its place on Tuesday, the White House said. The National Park Service, which takes care of the White House grounds, said the sapling was grown at its offsite greenhouse specifically to replace the Jackson Magnolia.