eli5: How can trees live for so long?

Question

I was just randomly thinking about the fact that some trees are over 10,000 years old. Other biennial plants don’t last that long, so what is it that helps trees survive for so long without withering into crumbs like other plants?

In: Biology

Answer 1

I think the oldest tree alive today is Methusaleh which is around 5000 years old. It’s location is kept secret so people don’t maim or kill it which is sad to say.

If trees can live to 10,000 years old that’s news to me. 5000 years is still incredible.