Moreton Bay Fig Tree, Santa Barbara (must see)

The Moreton Bay Fig Tree is popularly believed to be the United States' biggest fig tree. This tree has its humble origins in a seedling planted by a young girl in 1876. A friend of this girl transplanted the young tree to its present location. Since taking root at its location, the tree has thrived due to the weather.

This tree achieved National Historic Landmark status in 1970, and the City of Santa Barbara has owned the land where the tree sites since 1976. The tree has a listing on the California Register of Big Trees. This tree's height totals 80 feet, with a 176-foot crown spread. A chain barrier at the roots helps provide protection for the tree.

The site where the tree grows is also the site where explorer El Capitan Gaspar de Portolá and his crew camped in 1769. These Spaniards' explorations played a leading role in establishing California as a colony.