George Harrison memorial tree killed by beetles

George Harrison was rememberd by hundreds of fans in Grifffith Park. A plaque was unveiled next to a tree planted in his honor with family members and special guests present. (Credit Image: Chuck Green/ZUMAPRESS.com)

Isn't it ironic?

A memorial tree planted in Los Angeles to honor the late Beatles musician George Harrison needs to be replaced after it was infested with real-life beetles.

Los Angeles Councilman Tom LaBonge made the announcement over the weekend, according to the Los Angeles Times. The tree was planted near the Griffith Observatory in 2004 to honor the musician who passed away in 2001.

Bark beetles are common in Los Angeles and regularly feed on pine trees, the same type of tree planted at the Harrison memorial.

Clearly a fan, LaBonge was reportedly in attendance for the final tour stop of another former Beatle; Ringo Starr was performing with his band at the nearby Greek Theatre on Saturday.

Harrison spent his final days in Los Angeles and was honored with the plaque including a written tribute, which reads:

"In memory of a great humanitarian who touched the world as an artist, a musician and a gardener."

LaBonge says Griffith Park officials plan to replant a pine tree similar to the now 10-foot-tall tree that is being removed, though no official date for the new replanting has been set.

Watch a clip from the re-release of the film "A Hard Day's Night." Starring John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. (Photo: Everett Collection)
Watch a clip from the re-release of the film "A Hard Day's Night." Starring John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. (Photo: Everett Collection)

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