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The Angel Oak on Johns Island is one of the oldest and largest live oaks in the country. It is believed to be more than 1,400 years old.
The tree, which is a live oak, Quercus virginiana, a species prevalent in the sea islands of South Carolina, is 65 feet high and has a circumference of 25 feet. While its height may not be impressive, the shaded area covered by its foliage extends over 17,000 square feet, making it a delightful place to catch some shade in the summer months.
You will notice in the pictures that many of the Angel Oak's limbs rest peacefully on the ground, weighed down by their venerable age. In fact, the tree is believed to be more than 1,400 years old. However, this is difficult to pinpoint due to the tendency of live oaks to develop heart rot, a condition making it impossible to obtain accurate core samples.
In addition to the peace and beauty it brings to its visitors, the Angel Oak has been recognized as a 2000 Millennium Tree and the 2004 South Carolina Heritage Tree. As far as the naming of the Angel Oak, it can be traced back to the owners of the land many generations ago, Martha and Justis Angel. The Angel Oak property was acquired by the City of Charleston in 1991.
The Angel Oak is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sundays from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The gift shop keeps the same hours.
There is no admission charge, but profits from the gift shop help maintain the site.
The Angel Oak is located at 3688 Angel Oak Road on Johns Island. It is 12 miles from downtown Charleston.
For more information, call 843-559-3496.
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