The Wollemi Pine: A Living Fossil
Wollemia nobilis or the Wollemi pine is one of the most remarkable plant discoveries of the 20th century. Its fascinating history has captured the imagination of botanists and gardeners alike. Known as a “living fossil,” the Wollemi pine has survived for millions of years, and is now the subject of extensive conservation efforts to protect it from extinction.
This blog explores a brief history of the Wollemi pine, the conservation efforts aimed at saving this species, its natural environment, and tips for growing it in the UK.
The History of the Wollemi Pine
Thought to be extinct for 200 million years, the Wollemi pine was re-discovered in 1994 by Australian park ranger David Noble, in Wollemi National Park, New South Wales, while abseiling down one of the park's canyons. Before its re-discovery the Wollemi pine was only known from fossil records, dating back to the Mesozoic era, 90 million years ago. The Wollemi pine belongs to a group of conifers in the Araucariaceae family, which includes the Norfolk Island pine and the Monkey Puzzle tree.
The Wollemi pine was the first new conifer species to be found in over 100 years. Due to its rarity and remote habitat, it has now become the focus of conservation efforts to ensure its survival in the wild.
Conservation Efforts: Protecting the Wollemi Pine
The Wollemi pine’s re-discovery brought about conservation concerns, as the wild population appears to be limited to a single, secluded grove of fewer than 100 trees, making it extremely vulnerable to threats such as disease, climate change, and human activity. To protect the species, the Australian government and conservation groups have implemented a range of measures.
To this day Wollemi Park is protected in order to prevent tourists or researchers from disturbing the remaining trees. In addition, a controlled breeding program was initiated to propagate the Wollemi pine in nurseries, with the aim of increasing its population and ensuring genetic diversity. In 2006, Wollemi pines were made available to the public through selective cultivation, allowing gardeners and institutions to help preserve the species.
Despite these efforts, the wild population remains critically small, and the long-term survival of the Wollemi pine in its natural habitat is still uncertain.
The Natural Environment of the Wollemi Pine
In its native habitat, the Wollemi pine thrives in the cool, temperate rainforests of the Wollemi National Park in New South Wales, Australia. The environment is characterized by steep cliffs, dense vegetation, and a high level of humidity, with annual rainfall exceeding 1,000 millimetres. The trees typically grow in narrow ravines where they are protected from direct sunlight by the surrounding canopy. This unique microclimate provides the conditions the Wollemi pine needs to flourish, and something to consider when replicating its needs when planting.
The Wollemi pine is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters (130 feet) tall in the wild, though cultivated specimens are generally smaller. Its distinctive, irregular branching pattern and glaucous, blue / green, needle-like leaves make it easily recognisable. The bark is another recognisable feature, with a spongy, chocolate-coloured, bubbly texture that distinguishes it from other pines.
Growing the Wollemi Pine in the UK: Care Advice
While the Wollemi pine is native to Australia’s warm, temperate climate, it can be successfully grown in the UK with the right care. Given its natural habitat’s cool and shaded conditions, it’s important to try and replicate these elements for successful cultivation.
1. Location and Temperature
The Wollemi pine can be grown outdoors in the UK. It is best planted out in spring once all risk of frost has passed, and grown in a location that provides full sun or partial shade. Be mindful to acclimatise your Wollemi pine to the elements if it has been grown undercover, as placing it in direct sun will likely burn its foliage. In colder regions, which are prone to severe winters, it is advisable to grow in a large pot that can be provided with frost-free temperatures during the winter, so to protect its roots.
Trials in various countries have shown Wollemi pines to be hardy to around -12c if planted in the ground. It is, however, recommended to plant in a spot that is shielded from strong winds with some shelter, if possible.
2. Soil and Watering
The Wollemi pine prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. This can be achieved by mixing perlite, ericaceous soil and / or pine bark into the mix. Adding mycorrhizal fungi to the root ball / soil has been found beneficial to create a symbiotic relationship between a plant's roots and the fungi, assisting in the plant's health.
Regular watering is important during the growing season. A consistent level of moisture is ideal, but the tree should never sit in waterlogged soil. If growing in a pot it is also important to provide it with regular feeds during the growing season and an annual change of soil. Check the rootball and re-pot once the roots have filled the pot - failure to do so will stunt your plant's growth.
Overwatering during winter should definitely be avoided, as this could eventually lead to root rot. A general rule to remember is: less light = less water / less heat = less water.
3. Pruning and Maintenance
Wollemi pines do not generally require pruning, but light trimming of dead or damaged branches is recommended to maintain their shape. Pruning should be undertaken in spring.
4. Protection in Winter
In colder areas of the UK it is essential to protect the Wollemi pine from frost if growing in a pot. This can be done by placing it in frost-free area, such as a greenhouse or conservatory. If planting it in the ground, consider mulching around the base of the tree.
5. Growth Rate and Size
The Wollemi pine is a slow grower in our cooler UK climate. It typically grows to between 50-100 cm (0.5 - 1m) per year depending on conditions and the age of your plant. In its native habitat, it can reach up to 40 meters in height, but in the UK it is likely to remain much smaller, particularly so when grown in pots. New light green growth emerges in spring, eventually turning to a glaucous, blue / green as it matures. Wollemi pines often produce both male and female cones on separate branches and can also produce multiple trunks. As they mature the trunks develop a bubbling on their stems, giving the appearance of bubbled chocolate. During late autumn the Wollemi pine protects its growing tips by producing a white, waxy coat known as 'Polar Caps', which then disappear in spring when new growth emerges.
Conclusion
The Wollemi pine is a living testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of conservation. Its rediscovery was a reminder that even the most ancient and rare species can still be found in the most unexpected places. As efforts continue to protect this remarkable tree, gardeners in the UK have the opportunity to contribute to its preservation by carefully growing it in their own gardens.
By following care guidelines and replicating their natural environment, you can successfully cultivate a Wollemi pine, to enjoy its unique beauty, as well as helping to ensure that this living fossil continues to thrive in the future.
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