Stumpy 2.0 in the works as 5 cloned ‘stumplings’ now self-sustaining

The twisted, stunted and yet beloved cherry blossom tree known as “Stumpy” that inspired a loyal following on social media and beyond may be coming back to life — in a sense. The original Stumpy is no longer standing. It was cut down to make way for the restoration of a crumbling seawall at the Washington D.C. Tidal Basin. However, as reported on Wednesday, Aug. 14, clones of the tree, affectionately called “Stumpy 2.0,” are now taking root. They could be returned to the original home of Stumpy in the near future. Workers with the National Arboretum collected clippings and samples of the iconic tree earlier this year and took them to a protective cooler for preservation at the National Arboretum.