Malvern, England — A rare relic from the age of dinosaurs, the Wollemi pine, is thriving in a private garden, marking a significant milestone for this ancient species. Initially thought to be extinct for millions of years, Wollemi pines were rediscovered in 1994 in a secluded gorge near Sydney, Australia, captivating botanists and environmentalists alike.
Pamela and Alistair Thompson, a retired couple, planted one of these prehistoric trees in their garden after acquiring an 18-inch sapling in 2010. Since then, the tree has flourished, reaching a height of more than 13 feet. This spring, the couple was thrilled to find the Wollemi pine producing fruit for the first time, a promising sign for reproduction.
Pamela Thompson, now 75, expressed her amazement at the tree’s progression and the prospect of cultivating seeds from it. “The idea of having seedlings from the world’s rarest tree is truly remarkable,” she said. Such seedlings could potentially contribute to conservation efforts for the species, which is critically endangered.
Wollemi pines are often referred to as “dinosaur trees” due to their ancient lineage, dating back over 90 million years. They share a family tree with monkey puzzle trees and bear both male and female cones, which are essential for their reproduction. The long, drooping fruits signify the male cones, while the rounded, spiky ones are the female counterparts.
The couple paid approximately $93 for their sapling, highlighting the rarity of the species as similar trees can command prices exceeding $1,000. This rarity compels the Thompsons to seek seeds they hope to germinate later this year.
In addition to their gardening endeavors, the Thompsons are opening their garden to the public on May 4, a part of the National Garden Scheme. This event will allow fellow gardening enthusiasts a chance to view the Wollemi pine and learn about its history and significance.
The couple’s dedication to this unique tree, nurtured through years of care, stands as a testament to the resilience of nature. As awareness grows about the Wollemi pine, its journey from near extinction to revival can inspire conservation efforts worldwide. The future holds the possibility of expanding this ancient lineage, ensuring that the legacy of the Wollemi pine continues to thrive.