The oldest tree species is the Great Basin bristlecone pine, with many trees dating back around 4,000 years. The oldest tree is named Methuselah and it dates back nearly 5,000 years.

It’s also the largest known pine tree in the world. “It was all by itself in the forest,” Taylor told SFGATE. “Really, in a league of its own. ...

The pine tree was designated as the state tree of North Carolina in 1963. The state even established the Order of the Longleaf Pine . It's still in place to day to recognize service to the community.