"The Tree"

by H.P. Lovecraft
published in The Tryout, 7, No. 7 October 1921


Somewhere on Mount Maenalus, in Arcadia, Greece, is an olive grove which was once a "chosen haunt" for the god Pan.  In this grove grows a humanoid-looking tree.

Once there were two famous Greek sculptors, Kalos and Musides.  They were invited to compete in creating a wonder of the world.  Kalos fell ill and died.  Musides created a marble tomb for him, and, at Kalos' request, planted olive twigs near the head.

A humanoid tree grew from the tomb.  During a storm, a branch fell, crushing Musides and the statue he had made.
  Lovecraft himself dismissed "The Tree" - "if typed on good stock make excellent shelf-paper, but little else."  I'd have to agree.