Just a skip, hop, and a jump from the Van Ness metro station, nestled in International Park, sits an unassuming apple tree. This tree is a clone of the one that bonked Isaac Newton on the head and inspired the theory of gravity.
While the original tree – still going strong at 350 years old – is located in Lincolnshire, England, this one came from one of only four cuttings from the original. Because it was propagated and not planted by seed, it is technically an exact genetic clone and qualifies as a “direct descendant.” The tree is guarded by the secret service, so don’t even think about trying to nosh on some gravity apples.
That being said, explorers are welcome to visit the beloved science icon and rest in the shade of its branches as Isaac Newton once did!
Meet the Clone of Newton's Apple Tree
Kaela Cote-Stemmermann
At the previous site of the National Bureau of Standards (now NIST), a clone of Isaac Newton's famed apple tree stands in International Park. (Blake Patterson/Flickr)
Share article
Urban Almanac
How To Start an Urban Garden In DC
Even in the city, you can grow your own food. Here’s how to make use of even the tiniest spaces, whether you’re designing your community...
How to Experience the 2025 National Book Festival in DC
This Saturday, Sept. 6, the Library of Congress is throwing a party for book lovers: the 25th annual National Book Festival.
How to Manage and Stop the Spread of Invasive Lanternflies
The invasive spotted lanternfly has returned to the Washington, D.C. region this summer. Here's what you need to know about why it spread...
Does Extreme Heat Cause Sudden Branch Drop Syndrome?
After the tragic death of a woman in D.C., local officials are investigating if extreme heat contributes to Sudden Branch Drop Syndrome.
How To Forage in the DMV
An ancient foraging proverb says, “there are old foragers and there are bold foragers, but there are no old, bold foragers!”
Maryland Renames Snakehead Fish In Hopes of Increasing Demand
Maryland is renaming the invasive snakehead fish in hopes of getting more people to eat it. The snakehead fish will soon be known as the...
How To Water Your Street Trees
One critical piece of this is to water your street trees, especially if you have a young tree outside your house or apartment.
How To View The Solar Eclipse In DC
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking out our precious sunlight for a few rare minutes.
The latest in DC
Man Who Plotted with Au Pair to Kill Wife, Stranger Sentenced to Life in Prison
Brendan Banfield was found guilty earlier this year of plotting with the family’s au pair to stab his wife and shoot a stranger he’d plan...
'The Custodian' Explores the Life of Washington Football's Biggest Superfan
This documentary short premiering at DC/DOX Festival explores a Washington Football fan's 57-year quest to preserve the team's history wh...
A Local’s Guide To America 250 in Washington D.C.
From exploring historic ships to dancing to local tunes, celebrate America’s birthday like a real Washingtonian.
News Site NOTUS Blocked from Rebranding as The Star for Now
NOTUS was sued by the owner of The Washington Star for trademark infringement.
Your Guide to D.C. in June 2026
June is slam-packed with activities (not to mention an election!). Here’s the best things to do in D.C. this month.
Is Everyone Dropping Out of Trump’s Great American State Fair Concerts?
Vanilla Ice is still in.
Trump’s Name Must be Removed from Kennedy Center, Judge Orders
U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper said the Kennedy Center’s board acted unlawfully by renaming the center without congressional appr...
The Washington Star Is Suing The Star In a Very Confusing Media Battle
The plaintiffs say Washington is a one-star town.
