Florida Champion Trees

The Champion Tree Program was created by the American Forests organization in 1940 to recognize the largest known tree of each species in the United States. Each year, American Forests publishes its National Register of Champion Trees.

Florida Champion Tree Register

In 1975, Florida began keeping a state register, the Florida Champion Tree Register, to recognize the largest tree of each species in the state. The register now contains hundreds of trees, including some national champions. All native and non-invasive naturalized tree species are eligible for nomination.

The largest native tree in Florida is a bald cypress located in Hamilton County. This tree measures 557 inches in circumference, stands 84 feet tall, and carries a crown spread of 49 feet.

Nominating a Champion Tree 

Eligible Trees

Nomination of a Florida Champion Tree is open to all species of trees that grow in Florida, whether native or naturalized. Palm trees are included. Species listed as invasive exotics by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council are not eligible for nomination. Certain species growing in this state may not be eligible for national champion status, but can be recognized as Florida Champions.

To qualify, new nominees must rank among the top three for the species AND be within 80 percent of the current champion’s point total.

A number of native Florida tree species currently do not have champions. We especially encourage people to nominate trees from this species list. See a complete list of Native Tree Species in Florida Without Champions.

How to Make a Nomination

To nominate a tree, follow these steps:

1. Review the complete  Instructions for Nominating a Florida Champion Tree [ 494.9 kB ] .
2. Review our  Florida Champion Tree Measuring Procedures [ 736.8 kB ] . Measurements need to be verified by a Florida Forest Service County Forester before a tree is certified as a champion.
3. Complete a Florida Champion Tree Nomination Form[ ].
4. If the tree is on private property, complete and sign the Florida Champion Tree Property Owner Agreement[ ], which grants the Florida Forest Service written permission to accept the nomination of the tree and display specific information.
5. Submit the nomination form and the property owner agreement, if applicable, by mail, email or fax to any Florida Forest Service County Forester or the Urban Forestry Programs Coordinator (see contact information on the right).