What Is What Does The Tree Mean On Snapchat? A Simple Explanation

Hey there, Snapchat fam! Ever find yourself scrolling through your friend's profile and seeing that little green tree icon chilling next to their name? You're probably thinking, "What in the snap-tastic world is that?!" Don't worry, you're not alone. For the longest time, I was just as clueless, picturing a miniature forest growing on my phone. Turns out, it's way cooler and a whole lot simpler than that. Let's break down this leafy little mystery, shall we?
So, the deal with the tree icon on Snapchat is actually pretty straightforward. It’s all about your Snapstreak. Remember those? The little flame icon you see next to a friend when you’ve snapped them back and forth for consecutive days? Yeah, the tree is like the super-duper, extra-fancy version of that flame.
The Magical Meaning of the Snapchat Tree
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. That green tree isn't just for decoration, oh no. It signifies that you and that particular friend have maintained a Snapstreak of a whopping 100 days! Yup, you read that right. A whole century of snapping each other. That's dedication, folks!
Think about it. 100 days! That's more consistent than my commitment to drinking enough water (shhh, don't tell anyone). It means you've been reliably sending snaps and receiving them back, day after day, without fail. It’s a testament to your online friendship, a digital handshake of mutual snap-love.
So, if you see that tree, give yourself a pat on the back (or maybe just a quick double-tap on your screen). You've earned it! It's a badge of honor in the Snapchat universe, a sign that you're a true Snapchat MVP.
What's a Snapstreak Anyway? (For the Uninitiated)
Now, if you're thinking, "Wait, what's a Snapstreak again?" – no worries! We’ve all been there. A Snapstreak is basically a counter that shows how many days in a row you and a friend have sent each other snaps. It's like a little game within the app to keep you connected.
To keep a Snapstreak alive, you need to send a snap (a photo or video, not a chat message) to your friend, and they need to snap you back within 24 hours. It’s a simple back-and-forth rhythm. And when you hit that magic number of 100 days… BAM! Tree emoji.
It’s important to note that chat messages don't count towards your Snapstreak. So, if you're just sending "Hey!" or "What's up?" in the chat, that won't keep the streak going. You gotta get those visuals out there! Don't be shy, unleash your inner photographer (or selfie expert, no judgment).
Also, a crucial detail: replaying snaps doesn't count either. Snapchat wants you to be in the moment, creating new memories, not just reliving old ones (though, we all love a good throwback, right?). So, make sure you’re actively sending and receiving fresh content.

And here’s a little insider tip: Spectacles and Group Chats don’t count for individual Snapstreaks. So, while fun, they won’t help you earn that coveted tree. It’s all about that one-on-one connection, the direct line of communication between you and your snap-buddy.
Why Does the Tree Even Exist? (Snapchat's Quirky Logic)
You might be wondering, "Why a tree? Why not a trophy? Or a unicorn?" Well, Snapchat loves its little quirky symbols, and the tree is no exception. Think of it as a symbol of growth and longevity. Just like a tree grows stronger and taller over time, your friendship (and your Snapstreak!) has grown and flourished over those 100 days.
It’s a visual representation of the endurance of your connection. It shows that you’ve both put in the effort to stay in touch, even when life gets busy. It's a little digital hug that says, "Hey, I still think about you and want to share my day with you."
It also adds a fun little competitive element, doesn't it? We all like to see those streaks rack up, and the tree is the ultimate bragging right. Imagine seeing that tree next to your bestie's name. You might just have to up your snapping game to get there too!
The Sweet, Sweet Rewards of the Tree Icon
So, what do you get for reaching this 100-day milestone? Honestly, the biggest reward is the satisfaction of knowing you've built such a consistent connection. It's a testament to your friendship and a fun little achievement within the app.
However, there are some subtle perks. While Snapchat doesn't send you a literal tree or a discount at your local nursery (sadly), the tree icon itself is a pretty cool indicator. It's a way for your friends to see your dedication and for you to see theirs.

Plus, and this is a big one, it often means you're interacting with someone who is also actively using Snapchat. This can lead to more fun snaps, more shared moments, and generally a more engaging experience on the app. It's a sign of a mutual Snapchat vibe.
Think of it as a visual pat on the back from the Snapchat gods. You've done good. You've maintained the snap-flow. You're basically a Snapchat celebrity. Go you!
Tips to Keep Your Snapstreak (and Get Your Tree!)
Alright, so you're inspired and ready to conquer the Snapstreak world and aim for that majestic tree. Here are some super-easy tips to help you get there:
1. Make it a Habit: The easiest way to keep a streak going is to make it a part of your daily routine. Snap a picture of your morning coffee, your lunch, your pet doing something silly, or just a quick selfie. Whatever it is, do it around the same time each day.
2. Set Reminders: If you're a bit forgetful (hey, it happens!), set a daily reminder on your phone. Just a little nudge to "snap [friend's name]!" can make all the difference.
3. Be Creative! Don't just send boring snaps. Use filters, add text, draw little doodles. Make it fun! The more engaging your snaps, the more likely your friend is to snap back.

4. Communicate Your Intentions: If you're really aiming for a streak, let your friend know! They might be more motivated to snap you back if they know you're both working towards it. It can be a fun shared goal!
5. Don't Get Discouraged: Life happens. Sometimes streaks get broken. Don't sweat it! The beauty of Snapchat is that you can always start a new streak. The tree is a nice bonus, but the real win is staying connected.
6. Utilize the "Friendship" Lens: Snapchat often releases special lenses that are themed around friendships or connections. Keep an eye out for those – they can add a fun twist to your snaps!
7. Think Beyond the Snap: While the tree is about snaps, remember that Snapchat is also about sharing moments. Even if a streak breaks, continuing to chat and share your day can strengthen your friendship offline. The tree is just a little digital bonus!
When the Tree Disappears (And What That Means)
Now, it’s not all sunshine and green trees. What happens if you see that tree, and then suddenly, it’s gone? Uh oh. This usually means one of two things:
First, and most commonly, the Snapstreak has been broken. This happens if you or your friend miss sending a snap for more than 24 hours. The tree will then revert back to the flame icon, or disappear altogether if the streak was a very long one (like 100+ days).

Second, and this is a bit rarer, is if Snapchat decides to reset something on their end. Sometimes, with app updates or glitches, these little icons can get a bit wonky. If you're absolutely sure you've been snapping consistently and the tree vanishes, it might be worth checking with Snapchat support (though, let's be real, who has the time?).
The good news is, you can always rebuild! The journey to 100 days is a marathon, not a sprint. If you lose it, dust yourself off, grab your phone, and start snapping again. The next tree is just around the corner (well, 100 days around the corner).
The Bigger Picture: More Than Just an Emoji
Ultimately, the tree on Snapchat is more than just a cute little icon. It’s a symbol of a consistent, active friendship in the digital age. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with notifications and distractions, taking the time to consistently engage with someone through snaps is a pretty special thing.
It signifies a shared history, a mutual interest in staying connected, and a willingness to put in that little bit of daily effort. It’s about those quick glimpses into each other's lives, the silly selfies, the behind-the-scenes peeks, and the shared laughter through a screen.
So, if you see that tree on your friend's profile, or if you’ve achieved it yourself, take a moment to appreciate it. It represents a tangible, albeit digital, bond that’s been nurtured over time. It’s a reminder that even in our fast-paced, digital world, genuine connections can still flourish and grow, much like a mighty, sturdy tree.
And hey, if you haven't hit the 100-day mark yet, don't despair! Every snap you send, every streak you build, is a step towards fostering those connections. So go forth, snap away, and let your friendships bloom like the most magnificent digital forest!
