On Wednesday 16 August 2017, Ms Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, joined Her Excellency Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, President of the Republic of Croatia, to plant a Quercus ilex (evergreen oak) in the Central Valley of the National Arboretum Canberra.
Quercus ilex, the evergreen oak, holly oak or holm oak, is a large evergreen oak growing to a height of 21 to 28 metres. Native to the Mediterranean region, including Croatia, it takes its name from holm, an ancient name for holly. It is a member of the white oak section of the genus, with acorns that mature in a single summer.
Ceremonial trees planted from around the world
The National Arboretum Canberra is home to over 44,000 trees from more than one hundred nations. Many Australian and international leaders and public figures have planted ceremonial trees at the National Arboretum, including Their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; His Excellency Jose Ramos-Horta, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste; renowned Australian author, Mr Thomas Keneally and Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark.
Through ceremonial tree plantings and other special events, the National Arboretum Canberra builds partnerships with local, national and international organisations, individuals and communities to further its role in global tree conservation and research.