The Sycamore Gap has shown signs of life just 10 months after it was chopped down, the National Trust has said.
Experts say the new eight shoots could become new trees.
The National Trust – which owns the tree and the section of Hadrian’s Wall – say the shoots were two to four centimetres in height and featured between one and six leaves.
Andrew Poad, the general manager at Hadrian’s Wall said the discovery is “astonishing”.
He said: “We always had hope that nature would find a way to recover, and to see signs of life just 10 months on is astonishing.”
A monitoring system will now take place to determine whether the shoots will all grow to form a new multi-trunk tree or whether conservationists will encourage one shoot to grow to full size.
It will take a number of years until a decision is made.
Visitors are being asked to not touch the stump or shoots to help the tree survive.
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The National Trust – which owns the tree and the section of Hadrian’s Wall – say the shoots were two to four centimetres in height and featured between one and six leaves
PA
A fence extension is expected to be erected around the landmark.
Poad said: “The next few weeks and months are vitally important for the success of these shoots forming into the reinvigorated tree.”
In addition, people are also urged not to scatter the ashes of their loved ones near the site.
The charity said: “We appreciate what a special location this is to many people, but we are asking people not to leave ashes in the area – either on the stump or the surrounding ground – as they could significantly hinder the growing process by limiting the absorption of essential nutrients from the soil.”
A monitoring system will now take place to determine whether the shoots will all grow to form a new multi-trunk tree or whether conservationists will encourage one shoot to grow to full size
PA
It comes after Daniel Graham, 38, of Carlisle, and Adam Carruthers, 31, of Wigton were charged with causing criminal damage to the sycamore and Hadrian’s Wall.
Northumberland National Park Authority ranger, Gary Pickles – who was the first to discover the felled tree – found the new shoots during routine checks.
Tony Gates, the chief executive officer of Northumberland National Park said: “This is such welcome news and really demonstrates the power of nature to regenerate.
“I know this news will bring hope to many people and a smile to many faces and we will watch and wait to see how these shoots develop. I am genuinely intrigued to see what nature will give us.”
