No tree, it is said, can grow to heaven unless its roots reach down to hell.
About this quote
A standout line from Carl Jung, this quote distills a lesson about growth into 16 unforgettable words. It has resonated with readers for generations — the sort of wisdom worth writing on a wall, and one of the 1,000 most powerful motivational quotes we’ve gathered.
Highlights
More like this
Frequently asked
Who said “No tree, it is said, can grow to heaven …”?
This quote is attributed to Carl Jung.
What is the meaning of this quote?
At its heart, this line speaks to growth — reminding us that lasting progress comes from intention, effort and perspective. Carl Jung captures that idea in just 16 words.
What theme does this quote belong to?
It falls under the theme of Growth in the Top 1000 collection.
Why is this quote motivational?
Short, memorable and rooted in real experience, it's the kind of line you can return to whenever you need a push toward growth.
More from Carl Jung
Discover the life, work and other memorable words of Carl Jung.
Read about Carl JungOpens the official source in a new tab.