Box huckleberry trees are some of the oldest living things in America, with some specimens estimated to be over 13,000 years old. These trees, which are native to the Appalachian Mountains, can live for thousands of years because they have the ability to clone themselves. And they are found in a few special places in West Virginia, including Kate’s Mountain, near The Greenbrier.

Box huckleberry trees are unique in that they propagate by cloning, rather than producing seeds. This means that a single tree can spread out over a large area, creating a massive network of interconnected stems and branches.
Choess / Wikipedia
As the plant spreads out, it sends down roots from its branches, establishing new clones of itself.
One of the most impressive things about box huckleberry trees is their resilience. They are able to survive in harsh mountain environments, withstanding extreme temperatures, drought, and a lack of nutrients.
Hlpgtf2 / Wikipedia
Their leaves are adapted to the harsh environment, with a waxy surface that helps to retain moisture.
While box huckleberry trees are not particularly large, they can grow to be quite dense and bushy. They have small, dark green leaves and produce small, white flowers in the spring. Their fruit, which resembles a small blueberry, is a favorite of many animals, including bears, deer, and birds.
New York Botanical Garden / Wikipedia

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One of the places you can find Box Huckleberry in West Virginia is on Kate's Mountain in Greenbrier County.
maroonandorange / TripAdvisor
In fact, the historic marker at the base of Kate's Mountain Road mentions box huckleberries by name.
Greenbrier CVB
"Named for Kate Carpenter, whose husband, Nathan, was killed by the Indians. Fine scenic view. Home of Kate's Mountain Clover and other rare plants, such as the Box Huckleberry, 6000 years old-the oldest living thing."
Today, these ancient box huckleberry bushes, which form what some claim to be the oldest living organisms in West Virginia are under threat from habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these ancient trees and the ecosystems they support.
Mason Brock / Wikipedia
By preserving these shrubs, we can help to ensure that future generations can marvel at the beauty and resilience of these amazing treasures, true pieces of living history.

Have you ever spotted a box huckleberry? Who knew that they were among the oldest living things in West Virginia?!

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Kate's Mountain, West Virginia 24925, USA