The pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) of Allouville is said to be around 1,200 years old, which would make it the oldest in France. Legend says it was planted in 911, the day Normandy was born, but scientists believe it may date from the 9th century. Since 1696, it has grown hollowed and houses a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin. Another appeared above, called the hermit's room. The oak's trunk, 59 ft (18 m) high, is partially covered with traditional Norman cladding. Though lightning reduced it by half in 1912 and a storm damaged it in 1930, it still buds in Spring. According to scientists, the oak would still have 100 years to live.