A tree gifted to US President Donald Trump by French President Emmanuel Macron has disappeared from the White House.

Macron and Trump planted the oak sapling on the South Lawn of the White House on Monday.

Yet only four days later, the tree had disappeared from the lawn, with White House photographers picturing a pale patch of grass was left in its place.

Only a small patch of yellow grass is seen where the tree was planted. Photo: AAP

The brewing mystery has not been addressed by White House officials, while an official from Mr Macron’s office said the tree had been dug up hours after it was planted and was put in quarantine.

It was feared parasites from the tree could spread to others on White House property.

“It was actually a special favour from Trump to France to be able to plant the tree the day of the president’s visit,” the official said according to Reuters.

“Since then, it has returned to quarantine and will soon be replanted in the White House gardens.

“Don’t worry, the tree is doing very well.”

The tree, from Belleau Wood in France where almost 2000 American soldiers died fighting a German offensive at a World War I battle site.

100 years ago, American soldiers fought in France, in Belleau to defend our freedom. This oak tree (my gift to @realDonaldTrump) will be a reminder at the White House of these ties that bind us. pic.twitter.com/AUdVncaKRN

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 24, 2018

-with wires