Almond Tree, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Oxford *Original*

Almond Tree, University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Oxford

Until its removal due to ill health, the beautiful pink almond tree (Prunus dulcis) used to stand next to the University Church of Saint Mary the Virgin on Oxford's High Street.  Related to the peach tree it bears an edible almond fruit that is the basis of almond milk.

Greek legend tells the story of Demophoon and Phyllis, childhood sweethearts that became separated without their will. In her grief, Phyllis took her life. The gods intervened, and rather than let her die, turned her into an almond tree. When Demophoon eventually returned, he wrapped his arms around the tree crying for his lost sweetheart. Upon hearing this, the tree blossomed into a thousand white flowers that eventually turned pink – a colour the blossoms display to this very day.

Famous for its beautiful blossom that would signal the start of Spring, its twisted trunk propped up with ironwork it was a recognisable city landmark.