Karmactive Staff
Storm Éowyn’s powerful winds have severely damaged the Darnley Sycamore, a 450-year-old tree in Glasgow that witnessed Scottish royal history. The storm’s 100-mph winds broke most of the tree’s large branches, though its thick trunk still stands firmly rooted.
This sycamore holds special meaning for Scotland. Local stories say Mary, Queen of Scots, sat under its branches while caring for her husband, Lord Darnley, during his illness. The couple stayed at nearby Crookston Castle before their marriage in 1565.
“It’s one of the most important trees in Scotland,” says former First Minister Humza Yousaf, who shared his concern after seeing the damage. The tree’s trunk measures 4.2 meters wide, showing its remarkable growth over centuries.
Sycamores can live for several hundred years and grow up to 35 meters tall. This suggests the Darnley Sycamore might recover despite its severe damage. Labour MSP Paul Sweeney believes the rooted trunk might allow for successful pruning and restoration.
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The storm hit Glasgow particularly hard. Over 40,000 homes lost power, and all trains stopped running. The Met Office had warned about dangerous winds with a rare red weather alert for central Scotland.
Today, the Darnley Sycamore serves as more than just a historic landmark. It stands as the symbol of Darnley Primary School. The tree stands protected by a fence, with a plaque telling its royal story to visitors.
The damage comes as Scotland faces increasing severe storms. The region continues to deal with widespread power outages and travel disruptions, while this historic tree’s future remains uncertain.
