Balboa Park's Massive 100-Year-Old Fig Tree Draws Visitors

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A writer visiting San Diego's Balboa Park discovered the park's massive 100-year-old Morton Bay fig tree, nicknamed 'Leo,' which stands as a testament to the park's rich history and natural beauty. The tree, which was planted during the 1915 California-Panama Exposition, measures an astonishing 40 feet in diameter, 78 feet tall, and has a canopy spread of over 123 feet, making it the largest of the 16,000 trees in the park.

Why it matters

The Balboa Park fig tree, known as 'Leo,' is a beloved local landmark that has witnessed the park's evolution over the past century. As one of the oldest and largest trees in the park, it represents the enduring natural wonders that coexist with the park's iconic architecture and cultural institutions, drawing visitors who appreciate the tree's majesty and the park's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

The details

The fig tree is surrounded by a protective wrought-iron fence to prevent vandalism and damage to its massive root system. Visitors can observe the tree from a raised wooden pavilion that can accommodate up to 300 people at a time. The tree's thick, leathery leaves and abundant fig fruits, which are pollinated by specialized fig wasps, are a testament to its robust health despite its advanced age. The tree's sprawling branches and roots, some of which are large enough to be considered trees themselves, create a captivating and otherworldly landscape that enchants visitors.

• The Balboa Park fig tree, known as 'Leo,' was planted during the 1915 California-Panama Exposition.
• The writer visited the tree during a recent trip to San Diego.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The writer plans to return to Balboa Park to climb to the top of the iconic California Tower, which offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding city.