400-year-old ‘Green Lady’ named Croatian Tree of the Year

The winning tree (Photo credit: Krka National Park)

Croatia has announced the winner of the Croatian Tree of the Year 2023 competition – the impressive ‘Murva’ mulberry tree at Skradinski buk, whose story, the Green Lady of Krka National Park, captured the hearts and support of voters.

The competition was organised by the Public Institution for the Management of Protected Natural Areas of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County. 

The mulberry tree at Skradinski buk in Krka National Park, which is estimated to be around 400 years old, will now represent Croatia at the European Tree of the Year 2024 competition, which will be held in February and March next year. 

(Photo credit: Krka National Park)

This initiative brings together the most beautiful and significant trees from all over Europe, promoting nature conservation and biodiversity. It is expected that the Croatian tree will be a worthy representative of Croatia’s beautiful landscape and natural heritage on the European stage.

“We are greatly honoured to have had the opportunity for the Green Lady of Krka National Park, the beautiful mulberry tree at Skradinski buk, to be declared the Croatian Tree of the Year in 2023. This exceptional mulberry tree has become not only a symbol of our Park but also of the long-term preservation of nature and its invaluable value. This victory is the result of collaboration, effort, and the passion of all those who recognise the importance of preserving natural resources. We wish to express deep gratitude to all the voters who supported our Green Lady and joined our efforts to preserve nature,” said Nella Slavica, the director of the Krka National Park Public Institution, before adding.

“The nomination of our mulberry tree for the prestigious European Tree of the Year 2024 gives us the opportunity to share the story of this beautiful tree and promote the importance of nature conservation not only in Croatia but also throughout Europe. This mulberry tree represents the richness and beauty of our landscape, so we are proud that it has been chosen as a representative of our country on the European stage. This competition not only highlights the aesthetic value of trees but also their deep connection with the local community and people. Trees are witnesses to time, guardians of history, and important factors in the preservation of biodiversity. Through the Croatian Tree of the Year competition and the nomination for the European Tree of the Year, we promote awareness of their importance,” added Slavica.

(Photo credit: Krka National Park)

The Croatian Tree of the Year competition aims to highlight the significance that old trees have in natural and cultural heritage, deserving care and protection. It focuses not only on the beauty, size, or age of a particular tree but also on its story and its connection to the local community and people. Therefore, such competitions encourage local communities and the wider public to engage in the protection and preservation of natural values. 

Thanks to this type of competition, trees are promoted as an essential element in the protection and preservation of natural values and biodiversity, which is extremely important for human life and the survival of humanity.