Wollemi Pine. An inspiring survivor from the era of the dinosaur.

Wollemi Pine. An inspiring survivor from the era of the dinosaur. 11/25/2009

Described as a ‘living fossil’ The Wollemi Pine was first discovered in 1994, growing in a deep, narrow canyon of the rugged Wollemi National Park. They now call this rare tree, which dates back to the time of the dinosaurs, Wollemia nobilis or the Wollemi Pine.

The dramatic discovery of an evolutionary line thought to be long extinct is even more remarkable with these tall and striking trees growing only 150 km from Sydney, the largest city in Australia. They were found in the extremely rugged Wollemi National Park, a largely undisturbed wilderness area and their exact location is being kept as secret as it can be to protect this last natural stand of these trees.

Because it is rare and endangered, it is being commercially to ensure the survival of the species. It is available through selected nurseries.

While it is an enormous tree when allowed to grow to its full potential in nature, it’s growth will be controlled if it is grown in pots and it is available as a bonsai kit, also.

I am thinking ‘what an amazing truly Australian Christmas tree it would make and a very decorative courtyard or patio plant for the remainder of the year’.

I went to the Garden Express nursery in the Dandenong ranges, on Tuesday and I saw beautiful examples of Wollemi Pine being packed for shipment to buyers. The price was considerably more affordable than when these trees were originally released for sale just a couple of years ago. In this era when we learn of species, becoming extinct to find a new species and be a part of its survival is I think an inspirational life story.

My camera needs replacing; it chose, Tuesday to misbehave. The Garden Express nursery has some better illustrations of the Woolemi Pine and you are also able to mail order these trees, from them and by growing one, help ensure the survival of this rare species of tree.