Guide to

Threatened Trees

TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Why Save Endangered Trees? .............................................................. 2 Evaluating the Threats .......................................................................... 3 What are the Threats to Trees? ............................................................. 6 Vanishing Acts Trees Magnolia (Magnolia officinalis) .............................................................. 8 Pygeum (Prunus africana) .................................................................... 11 Pacific Yew (Taxus brevifolia) ............................................................... 14 Intermountain Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva) ............................. 18 Chinese Magnolia (Magnolia sinica) ................................................... 22 Wollemi Pine (Wollemia nobilis) .......................................................... 25 Wild Apple (Malus sieversii) ................................................................ 28 Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri) ........................................................................ 31 Anhui Elm (Ulmus gaussenii) .............................................................. 34 Monkey Puzzle (Araucaria araucana) .................................................. 37 Serbian Spruce (Picea omorika) ............................................................ 42 Pau brasil (Caesalpinia echinata) .......................................................... 45 Big-Leaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) ...................................... 49 Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) ................................ 53 Franklin Tree (Franklinia alatamaha) ................................................... 56 Action for the Future Conserving Trees for Our Future ....................................................... 59 How Can You Help? ............................................................................ 60 Additional Resources ........................................................................... 61

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INTRODUCTION Why Save Endangered Trees? As we walk through the world every day, we are surrounded by trees and plants. They are so ubiquitous and common that we take them for granted. They are part of the daily fabric of our lives, growing in our yards, lining our streets, enhancing our parks, and forming the framework for our adventures in nature. We depend on plants for food, wood for fuel and shelter, a wide variety of products such as rubber and paper, and for beauty and solace. Fossilized plants in the form of coal and oil power our society, and nearly half of all of the medicines in current use are based on substances derived from plants. And of course, plants are necessary for the oxygen in the very air we breathe. Hikers pushing through brush in North American woodlands or exploring the dense rainforests of the tropics might feel that there is such a diversity and abundance of plant life that there could never be such a thing as an endangered plant. There is, indeed, a tremendous diversity of plant species in the world. Recent estimates from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the Missouri Botanical Gardens indicate that there are more than 300,000 described plant species on record, hundreds of thousands more than birds, mammals, or fish – and that number is rising. As we continue to explore new areas of the globe, new plants are still being discovered. One estimate indicates that there may be around 10,000 undiscovered plants just in Central and South America. Yet trees and plants all over the world are in immediate peril. Trees are adapted to the unique environments in which they grow. And all over the world, the forests and habitats that trees depend upon are disappearing. Estimates of forest loss vary, but there can be no doubt that all of our forest ecosystems, and the unique plant and animal life in these ecosystems, are in danger. Global losses in the unique tropical forests that contain nearly half of the world’s species have been estimated at nearly 100,000 miles (160,000 km) per year, with a total shrinkage of nearly 9% (981,766 miles or 1,580,000 km) between 1990 and 2000 (World Resources Institute, WRI). While much emphasis has been placed on tropical rainforests due to their fragile and complex ecosystems, losses in temperate regions have been even more dramatic. In Europe and North America, only about 1% of the original forest cover remains today. While the total number of tree and plant species at risk is not clear, the estimates that exist are alarming. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) catalogues threats to animals and plants and identifies species at risk in its Red Data lists and books. A study in 2010 by the IUCN, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the Natural History Museum, London estimated that one in five, or 20% of the world’s plant species were dangerously

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rare or threatened with extinction. The situation is just as dire for trees – the World List of Threatened Trees describes more than 8,000 tree species (about 10% of known tree species) that are threatened with extinction. More than 1,000 tree species are currently listed as Critically Endangered based on the IUCN Red List criteria (see page 4) and biologists estimate that in the past 100 years, 77 species of trees have become extinct. Current documented extinction rates are nearly 1,000 times higher than the “background” rate, the rate at which species have been naturally going extinct for the past 65 million years. The trees under threat today offer immeasurable benefits. They lower energy costs, control storm water runoff and erosion, and provide medicine, food, timber, and more. Trees create cleaner, healthier, more livable, and more beautiful communities, both through their environmental benefits and the calming effects scientists have observed on human behavior. And the extinction of any plant species has ripple effects on other species. The extinction of a plant species can result in the loss of habitat and food for other organisms, as well as resulting in an overall loss of productivity in the habitat of that plant. Endangered trees do not receive as much international conservation attention as their counterparts in the animal kingdom and fewer are top of mind for the general public. Because of all of these reasons, learning more about endangered trees and their conservation and taking action to protect these trees is of critical importance to all of us. Evaluating the Threats The levels of threats to the trees in this exhibit are described using the categories from the IUCN Red List version 2010.4. The IUCN Red List was developed for classifying species at high risk of global extinction and identifying the need for more study and better protection at a global level. Inclusion in the list is based on several numerically based factors or criteria. The size of populations and subpopulations of the species play a key role in evaluation, as do the number of mature individuals and reproductive potential of the species, and the documented declines and fluctuations in the number of mature individuals of a species. The habitat (the environmental conditions required for a species to thrive) and distribution (the number and location of individuals of a species) of the species are also considered. As part of the habitat and distribution, the range of the species; the availability potential habitat suitable for that species; the fragmentation of that habitat; and the under-utilization of existing habitat by a species are all considered. Scientists also account for the possibility that a single threatening event could rapidly affect all individuals remaining in a given location and all are taken into account when evaluating extinction risk.

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What does the assignment of a tree to the different threat categories or other categories in the IUCN Red List mean? Extinct (EX) means … there is no reasonable doubt that the last tree of this species has died. The species is gone. Extinct in the Wild (EW) means… there is no doubt that all natural populations of these species have died and that a species is only known to survive in cultivation or in populations that have escaped from cultivation well outside of the natural range of the species. Threatened means … that a tree’s population is declining and the species is likely to become extinct unless its conditions improve. Species are described as threatened when they fall into the Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable categories (species that are already extinct in the wild or extinct can no longer be threatened with extinction). A variety of numerically based criteria define these categories, and meeting any one of these criteria qualifies a species for listing at the appropriate level.

Critically Endangered (CR) means…that the tree is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. Population size has been reduced or is expected to be reduced by 80% or more in 10 years or three generations; population size is less than 250 total individuals and is declining, or is less than 50 mature individuals; geographic range or habitat is severely limited and declining, or is so reduced or fragmented that a single event could wipe out the species; or a numerical analysis of the species shows a greater than 50% probability of extinction within 10 years or three generations. Endangered (EN) means … that the tree is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. Population size has been reduced or is expected to be reduced by 50% or more in 10 years or three generations; populations are under 2500 mature individuals and are in decline or are under 250 mature individuals; geographic range is significantly limited, and is severely fragmented and decline or extreme fluctuations are observed in population size and distribution; or a numerical analysis shows that the probability of extinction in the wild is at least 20% within 20 years or 5 generations, whichever is longer (up to a maximum of 100 years).

Vulnerable (VU) means …that the tree is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. Population size has been reduced or is expected to be reduced by 30% or more in 10 years or three generations; populations are under 10,000 mature individuals and are in decline or are under 1000 mature individuals; geographic range is reduced or fragmented and decline, severe fragmentation, or extreme fluctuations are observed in population size and distribution; or a numerical analysis shows that the probability of extinction in the wild is at least 20% within 20 years or 5 generations, whichever is longer (up to a maximum of 100 years).

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Near Threatened (NT) means…a species has been evaluated, does not yet qualify for any of the Threatened categories, but is likely to qualify in the near future. Least Concern (LC) means…a species has been evaluated and does not qualify for any of the categories above. Species that are widespread and abundant are included in this category. A large number of species evaluated are also deemed Data Deficient (DD); that is, the data available on a species is inadequate to determine the level of threat. Listing in the categories Data Deficient or Not Evaluated implies that no assessment of extinction risk has been made, not that species are not at risk. Since extinction is a chance process, the list can only describe the expected chance of extinction. All species in a higher category of extinction risk meet the criteria of the category below it (i.e., all taxa listed as Critically Endangered also qualify for Vulnerable and Endangered). It is important to remember that the IUCN list only describes plants that have currently been evaluated by IUCN. In 2010, the number of plant species that had been evaluated by the IUCN was just under 13,000, only 4% of the known plant species. Many known plant species not included in the list are almost certainly threatened with extinction, but their status has not been evaluated yet. You can find more information about the IUCN Red List at: www.iucn.org/themes/ssc/redlists/rlcategories2000 Other terms you may see used in this guide are the terms in-situ and ex-situ conservation. In-situ conservation describes the process of protecting and restoring populations of species in their natural habitats. Ex-situ conservation describes the protection and preservation of species at locations outside of their natural habitat, and includes cultivation in botanic gardens and arboreta, in the landscape, and storage in seed banks and other repositories for the diversity of plant genetic material. These two types of efforts can and should be used in combination to protect trees and other plants against the threat of extinction.

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What Are the Threats to Trees? All over the world, the threats to trees, plants, and their habitats mount week to week. What are the key threats that are driving trees towards extinction? Overharvesting: Some species of trees are in high demand due to the value and use of their wood for commercial products, food and medicinal products from trees, and their value as a landscape tree or as a collected specimen. This demand can result in overharvesting of those species to the point of decimating the natural populations of these trees. Habitat Destruction: As the human population continues to rapidly increase and expand our roads and cities, our demands for land for habitation, food production, animal fodder, raw materials and for exploitation of natural resources for economic and recreational purposes have increasingly destructive effects on tree habitats. Timber harvesting for fuel, building supplies, paper and other products, and clearing land for agricultural use decimates forests, and the removal of trees has additional destructive effects on the soil and water sources in the vicinity. Increasing air and water pollution also has damaging effects on forests all over the world, altering the chemical balance in the soil and water required by the plants native to the habitat, and creating imbalance in the affected ecosystems. Changes in natural fire regimes can also create unsuitable habitat for trees. Species that once thrived in the conditions created by fire can be out-competed by other species in the absence of fire, and the creation of conditions for wildfires can destroy entire forests. Destruction of forests can lead to increased deflection of light and heat from the sun and reduce the ability of an ecosystem to trap and recirculate moisture from rainfall. All of these effects can result in desertification, or increases in unnaturally barren land wherever the destruction of natural vegetation occurs. Invasive Species: Thousands of non-native invasive plants, insects, animals, and plant diseases are infesting millions of acres of lands and waters worldwide. These invaders cause massive damage to trees, disrupting the natural ecosystem processes in tree habitats. Pressure from these aggressive and damaging species reduces biodiversity and degrades the health of forests. In the United States alone, financial impact from invasive species infestations in the United States has been estimated at $138 billion per year in total economic damages and associated control costs; the uncounted ecosystem costs make this toll much higher. Climate Change: Today, the scientific evidence is unequivocal: the climate is changing all over the globe. A study released by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences in 2010 said, “Climate change is occurring, is caused largely by human activities, and poses significant risks for – and in many cases is already affecting – a broad range of human and natural systems.” (NAS, 2010. Advancing the Science of Climate Change.) The impacts of rising average global temperatures and increased fluctuation in temperatures, seasons, and precipitation spell major trouble for tree populations. Botanists classify the world’s vegetation into a range of zones determined by climate; each tree species has a particular climatic environment that it thrives in. As climate shifts, the habitats suitable for trees may shift faster than trees can follow. Other effects of changing climate may

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include increasing droughts and desertification, as well as the increased emergence of invasive pests and diseases that can decimate tree populations. These effects have particularly strong impacts on tree species that already have reduced population sizes, or restricted or fragmented geographic ranges; as the climate changes, species already under threat stand a lower chance of being able to respond to the changes they experience.

************************ This exhibit from The Morton Arboretum, Vanishing Acts: Trees Under Threat, takes a close look at the precarious plight of the world’s trees, the forces that threaten them, and the actions that can be taken to help conserve these valued resources. Towards this end, we have selected fifteen species of threatened trees to explore, based on the level of threat the IUCN has identified for these trees, their geographic distribution, reasons for endangerment, and their ecological, economical, cultural, or medicinal importance. As you visit the exhibit and leaf through these pages, you will discover trees that are important for their medicinal properties, scientific value, use as a source of food or other economically important products, key role in maintaining species diversity in different habitats, and their spiritual, cultural, aesthetic, and recreational value. These tree species were selected in part for their ability to demonstrate the diversity of threats facing trees today, the global nature of tree species endangerment, and the range of threat levels from near threatened to extinct in the wild. As you meet these trees and learn their stories, remember that these are only a tiny fraction of the fascinating and beautiful trees that humanity and life on earth depend upon – that are disappearing right before our eyes. We hope that by showing how trees enrich our lives and the dangers that trees face, we can inspire others to join us, including you.

MAGNOLIA

Magnolia officinalis

Magnolia Family (Magnoliaceae)

Near Threatened

Photo Credit: Wendy L. Cutler

Importance While people all over the world enjoy the beautiful flowers of cultivated magnolias in spring, 131 of all 245 known magnolia tree species are under threat of disappearing. That’s more than half of all magnolia species. In one species, Magnolia officinalis, demand for the bark in traditional Chinese medicine is so high that most of its wild population has been wiped out. The tree is sometimes called the Houpa magnolia, based on the medicinal name for the bark, which is sometimes known as “Hou Po” or “houpo.” Active ingredients extracted from bark are reputed to have anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory properties. In use since 100 A.D., this drug also exhibits antidepressant-like effects, has been used to control stress and anxiety, treat coughs and colds, and reduce allergy symptoms. Harvard botanist Lily Perry described the drug extracted from the bark as “bitter, pungent, and warming” (qtd in Forrest, 1995). Herbal practitioners may also prescribe magnolia flower buds to improve digestion and ease menstrual cramps.

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Harvesting of M. officinalis bark is extremely destructive. In May, harvesters cut down twenty year old trees, and strip the bark from the roots, trunks, and branches. They dry the bark first in the shade and then in sun, then steam it, roll it into tubes, and sort it according to the part of the trunk from which it comes. Houpo is toxic in large quantities, and is nearly always prescribed with other herbs. Description Form: This is an erect or spreading tree with an oval form and a high canopy. It has a growth rate of 24 inches per season, and will reach a height of 45 to 50 feet (12 to 15 m) in full sun and well drained soil. Leaf: This deciduous tree has medium green leaves that are oblong and broader at the tip, up to 18 inches (45 cm) long and 4 to 8 inches (11 to 20 cm) broad. The foliage turns bronze or gold in the fall. Flower: The cream or white flowers appear in the spring and are showy and fragrant. They can be as large as 12 inches in diameter and have 9 to 12 (rarely to 17) tepals. The flowers will litter the ground around the tree as the petals fall. Fruit: The fruit is a very large and rounded red follicle (over 3 inches or 7 cm), appearing in fall. Bark & Twigs: Thick, smooth, grey-brown bark, may fissure at the base of the tree. Habitat and Ecology While this tree may look tropical, M. officinalis is actually found in the temperate mountains and valleys of China. This tree is endemic to China, and is widely distributed in Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi,

Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Zhejiang provinces. It generally occurs in broadleaved deciduous forest in elevations from 900 up to 6,500 feet (274 to 2,000 m). This tree takes some time to establish, and generally blooms at approximately 15 years of age. M. officinalis grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 7, and prefers moist, well drained soil in full sun to partial shade environments. It can grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils that are highly acidic to neutral. The tree is susceptible to aphids, scales, and spider mites, and has a natural lifespan of 50 to 150 years. This species has been plagued by taxonomic confusion since its original collection in Hubei province by Augustine Henry in 1885. It is nearly identical to the closely related Japanese species, Magnolia hypoleaca, and was identified as such until 1913 when E.H. Wilson and Alfred Rehder examined specimens they had collected in Hubei six years earlier. They gave the plant its specific epithet officinalis, latin for “of the shops,” signifying its medical importance. While they identified a variety, Magnolia officinalis var. biloba, which is distinguished from the type variety by the deep notches at the leaf apices and slight variations in native range, the differences between the two forms are not thought to be sufficient for taxonomic distinction. Threats The rate of decline and deforestation in China’s forests and the intense levels of bark-stripping of this tree for medicinal purposes have led to the species becoming rare outside cultivation. Most of the wild population has been destroyed by overharvesting of the valuable bark.

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Conservation action: We are only beginning to understand the magnolia’s medical potential. Losing magnolia species will impact global medicine—and beauty. Conservation of this species will depend on acquiring germplasm - collecting seeds and plants for cultivation ex-situ or outside of the tree’s natural habitat - from the documented wild populations of M. officinalis. To help protect this tree for the future, you could support the Global Trees Campaign, a project working to boost conservation efforts for threatened magnolias. References Forrest, Todd. 1995. Two Thousand Years of Eating Bark: Magnolia officinalis var. biloba and Eucommia ulmoides in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Arnoldia 55(2): 13 – 18. Kruse, J. 2001. Magnolia officinalis. Mansfeld’s World Database of Agricultural and Horticultural Crops. (http://mansfeld.ipk-gatersleben.de/pls/htmldb_pgrc/f?p=185:46:1496148118798845::NO::module,mf_use,source,akzanz,rehm,akzname,taxid:mf,,botnam,0,,Magnolia%20officinalis,14462, 31 March 2011). SelecTree. 1995-2011. Magnolia officianalis Full Tree Record. Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute, College of Agriculture, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California. (http://selectree.calpoly.edu/treedetail_all.lasso?rid=869 , 31 March, 2011).

USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN) [Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland. ( http://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?23125, 31 March 2011). World Conservation Monitoring Centre. 1998. Magnolia officinalis. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 31 March 2011).

PYGEUM

Prunus africana

Rose Family (Rosaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo Credit: Kristen Stewart

Importance A stately canopy tree of the high montane forests of Africa, pygeum has long been used for medicinal purposes. Leaves have been used as an inhalant for fever or are drunk as an infusion to improve appetite. Water has been added to pounded bark and the red liquid is used as a remedy for stomach-ache or as a purgative for cattle. The bark, bruised leaves, and fruits have a strong, bitter-almond smell, and have a reputation for being poisonous and being used in witchcraft (like many plants that have medicinal properties). Today, that very medicinal property is putting this tree in danger. The liquid extracts from Prunus africana bark, also known as pygeum, are used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate gland hypertrophy, (common conditions in older men which make urination painful or impossible). Because these are such common conditions, the bark is in high demand – by the year 2000, $150 million worth of bark was being sold each year.

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After more than 40 years of collecting bark, the wild pygeum tree population has been seriously depleted. Particularly with an increasingly aging population, pressure on this tree is only going be greater in the future. Currently, most pygeum bark is still collected from trees in the wild. While correctly removing the bark does not kill the tree, much of the bark removal occurring is done poorly, damaging or killing mature trees. These trees are also harvested for timber, with wood being used for agricultural tool handles, wagons, furniture, and more. The sustainability of the pygeum trade is a subject of extensive research and international discussion. Description Form: A medium to large evergreen tree that is found growing in the canopy up to 75 to 150 feet (24 to 36 m) tall with a trunk diameter that can be over 3 feet (1 m). Leaf: The heavy, shining foliage is composed of alternate, simple leaves. Leaves are oval or lance shaped, 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 cm) long, shiny deep green on the top side and duller and lighter underneath. They have conspicuous veins and a distinct midrib prominent on the underside, sometimes widely tapering at both ends and sometimes with a long drawn-out point, or with a round tip. The margin varies from finely toothed to untoothed, and leaves are set on a pink or red petiole 0.75 inches (2 cm) long. The crushed leaves have a bitter almond smell. Flower: The small, white or greenish flowers are hairy and fragrant. They are borne abundantly in bunches 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.6 cm) long in the axils of leaves or on the side of shoots or in branched axillary sprays. The flowers are 1 to 2 inches (3 to 7 cm) long with

small calyx and petals and 10 to 20 prominent stamens. In its area of natural distribution, P. africana flowers between November and February, though sporadic flowering all year round can be seen in Kenya. Fruit: The spherical, pinkish-brown fruit (known as a drupe) is bitter and resembles a cherry when ripe. Fruits are approximately half an inch (1.3 cm) in diameter. Seeds are broader than they are tall with a thin, dark red to reddish-brown pulp when ripe and 1 or 2 small, delicate, oval seeds inside. The seeds are believed to be recalcitrant, i.e., unable to survive drying and freezing for ex-situ conservation. Bark & Twigs: The bark that is so highly prized for medicine is dark-brown to gray bark and rugged. The branchlets are brown, corky, and dotted with breathing spots and the twigs have a knobbly appearance. Habitat and Ecology Pygeum is native to the montane forests of Africa and the high altitude rainforest of Madagascar, occurring at altitudes of 5900 to 7200 feet (1800 to 2200 m). This stately tree grows in the humid and semi-humid highlands and humid midlands. The species has a high light requirement and grows best in forest gaps. Pygeum is an important part of the forest food web. Insects pollinate the tree, and fruits are highly relished and dispersed by birds and monkeys. Threats The primary threat to this tree is the harvesting of bark for the European medicinal market. In places where jobs are scarce, quick profits from harvesting can be tempting, resulting in unsustainable harvesting of the

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tree. On Mt Cameroon, as with some other areas within the range of this species, many trees have died as a result of girdling caused by bark removal. The bark harvest, primarily taken from the wild in Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo (the former Zaire), has had a devastating effect on wild populations of the species. In addition, surrounding forests have been clear-cut for forest products and agricultural land, limiting the tree's habitat. Conservation Action This overexploitation sparked conservation concerns, resulting in the species being listed in Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in 1994. This convention requires exporting countries to issue export permits and countries of import have to check these permits upon entry. The Scientific Authority of an export country advises its Management Authority on the sustainability of a consignment and, ideally, the export permit would be based on sound inventory and management information. All of the countries exporting pygeum bark are signatories to CITES, meaning that the bark exported to western countries should be harvested from a sustainable source. However, the reality is somewhat different and, despite the legislation, the unsustainable exploitation of this species is well-recorded. For truly sustainable production of medicines from pygeum bark, establishment of managed forests or plantations for harvesting bark will be required. Want to help? Only buy pygeum if the manufacturer can show it was harvested responsibly. You can also consult your health care provider for other effective medications

to treat BPH, or educate others on the ongoing discussion of sustainable pygeum harvest and production. References Cunningham, A.B., Ayuk E., Franzel, S.J. Daguma.B. and Asanga C. 2002. An Economic Evaluation of Medicinal True Cultivation; Prunus africana in Cameroon. People and Plants working paper 10. UNESCO, Paris pg 1, 3, 30, 32. (http://www.peopleandplants.org/storage/working-papers/wp10.pdf, 8 June 2011). Cunningham, A. B and Mbenkum, F. T. 1993. Sustainability of harvesting Prunus africana bark in Cameroon: A medicinal plant in international trade. People and Plants working paper 2. Paris, UNESCO. (http://www.peopleandplants.org/storage/working-papers/wp2.pdf, 8 June 2011). World Conservation Monitoring Centre. 1998. Prunus africana. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 8 June 2011). Orwa et al. 2009. Prunus africana. In: World AgroForestry Centre AgroForestry Tree Database. Version 4.0. (http://www.worldagroforestrycentre.org/resources/databases/agroforestree, 8 June 2011).

PACIFIC YEW

Taxus brevifolia

Yew Family (Taxaceae)

Near Threatened

Photo Credit: Edward S. Ayensu, USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

Importance Pacific yew is one of the great success stories of ethnobotanical research. Also known as the western yew or Montana yew, this small, shrubby tree was used extensively by native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest. The wood was used for canoe paddles, war clubs, any number of household items, gambling tokens, ceremonial objects and harpoons, fish spears, fish clubs, and dip net frames along the coast. It was also valued as wedges for splitting cedar (in the Hesquiat, Saechelt, Suquamish and Nootka languages the name of the tree means wedge-plant) and was highly prized for making bows (its Haida name means bow-plant). Taxus brevifolia was also widely used in traditional medicine. The tree was imbued with almost magical properties, and infusions of the leaves and bark were drunk for strength by a wide variety of tribes. The Swinomish believed that even rubbing the limbs with the boughs from the tree would bring strength.

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In western culture, this plant had little commercial or economic value – settlers in the Pacific Northwest considered it of little use and used it mostly for fenceposts, firewood, and tool handles. In the 1960s, this all changed. During the 1950s and 60s, the newly formed National Cancer Institute contracted with the USDA to find samples of plants that showed potential for fighting cancer. After testing 15,000 plants, five species showed further promise. One of these species, T. brevifolia, showed a broad spectrum of anti-cancer activities when it was analyzed in 1962. Traditional medicine had useful information for modern medicine - two years later, scientists had isolated a compound from the tree bark that was the source of this plant’s anti-cancer properties. This compound, named “taxol,” showed great promise as a new cancer drug, but was so chemically complicated that it had to be obtained from natural sources rather than being synthesized. In order to make more taxol for the extensive studies required to understand the use of the drug and get it approved, wild trees had to be harvested for their bark. This compound became the basis for the chemotherapy drug paclitaxel, one of the best-selling cancer drugs of all time. While the drug was originally approved for use as a treatment for ovarian cancer, the pharmaceutical company manufacturing the drug reported that ongoing research was showing its efficacy in other areas such as cancers of the lung, breast, bladder, prostate, esophagus, head and neck, cervix, and endometrium and also Kaposi's sarcoma. Due to limited supply of slow growing Pacific yew, taxol also became one of the most expensive drugs on the market. However,

recent advances in synthesizing the drug from other species of yew have reduced the burden on Pacific yew populations. Today, this species is once again highly valued for its medicinal properties, though that value does still place the tree under conservation concern. Description Form: A small understory evergreen tree. The growth form is indistinct – it can be shrubby, but can vary greatly depending on growing conditions. While the tree can reach 50 feet (15 m) tall and 2 feet (60 cm) in diameter, it is usually much smaller, with fluted and asymmetrical trunks. Pacific yew is very slow growing but can be an extremely long-lived tree. Leaf: Evergreen needles, single, spirally arranged on a single plane. The needles are 1 inch (2 cm) long, yellow-green to dark green above and paler below (but not white). The tips of the needles are pointed but not sharp, and the leaf margins tend to roll under. Each needle has a distinct petiole that parallels the twig for a short distance. Flower: Pacific yew is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants. The male flowers are small, round, and yellow and are borne on the undersides of the leaves, and the female flowers are solitary. Fruit: A round, fleshy, orange-red aril – a fruit shaped like a berry, with pulpy flesh surrounding a hard central seed with no seed coat. This fruit is usually about 0.25 inches (0.63 cm) long containing one hard seed that is exposed at the end. Bark & Twigs: The bark is always thin (about 0.25 inches, 0.63 cm), reddish brown, and scaly with reddish purple inner bark. The

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twigs are round and slender, remaining green for many years. Habitat and Ecology T. brevifolia occurs in northwestern North America, from northwest California north to southern Alaska and east to Montana. It is an understory tree of Pacific Northwest forests, found in light to deep shade. Pacific yew is mostly found in somewhat moist forests, especially along streams and on slopes. It is not uncommon within its main range of distribution, with distribution patterns ranging from scattered to dense patches. Thousands of occurrences are estimated to exist. As an understory tree of coniferous and mixed coniferous forests, Pacific yew is extremely shade-tolerant. As a young tree, T. brevifolia apparently requires shade for establishment, but older trees are able to adapt to overstory removal. Moisture requirements are fairly high and, in drier areas, it is limited to streamsides, seepsides, and shady, north-facing slope bottoms and tolerates a wide range of temperature conditions. Elevations range from sea level to 7800 feet (2440 m) at the southern end of its range, in the Sierra Nevada. While this species is widely distributed in its range, Pacific yew is also slow-growing, does not reproduce rapidly, and is strictly limited to western North America. Although it is somewhat resistant to minor disturbances, harvesting or logging can fairly easily eliminate this tree from a given area. Threats Logging activity, occurring throughout much of its range, is the most significant current

threat to this species. In the past, there was concern that it could be threatened by harvest of its bark for extraction of the anticarcinogen taxol, and native populations have been under considerable pressure from the scale of exploitation of the bark by pharmaceutical companies. This tree is currently declining in numbers and could soon be at risk for extinction if this trend continues. However, the threat to the tree from taxol production has been greatly reduced in recent years. Appropriate ways of synthesizing taxol from the leaves of Eurasian yew trees, mainly T. baccata and T. wallichiana have been developed, and most taxol supplied today is synthesized this way. In addition, plantations of this tree are now being created for the purpose of harvesting taxol. So harvest for this purpose is does not appear to be as significant a future threat at this time. Nonetheless, the wild populations of this tree should be closely watched, particularly as the region faces increased pressure from logging, wildfires, and climate change. Conservation Action Since Paclitxel is now semi-synthesized from other yews, and is beginning to be obtained from plantation sources, some of the pressure on Pacific yews has already been reduced. However, there are several ways you can still help! The species occurs in many national parks in the northwest – you can help protect this tree, and other trees by visiting America’s national parks, which help preserve and protect trees, including those whose life-changing possibilities have not yet been discovered. Recycling, and reducing the use of paper and other forest products will also help reduce logging pressure on the forests that form the habitat for this important species.

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References Bolsinger, C.L. and A. E. Jaramillo. 1990. Silvics of North America, Volume 1: Conifers. Agriculture Handbook 654. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Washington, DC. (http://www.na.fs.fed.us/pubs/silvics_manual/Volume_1/taxus/brevifolia.htm, 31 May 2011). Christy, M. 1999. The Pacific Yew Story. How An Ancient Tree Became a Modern Medicine. Wishland Publishing, Inc. Meza AZ. Conifer Specialist Group 1998. Taxus brevifolia. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 31 May 2011). Earle, C.J., editor. The Gymnosperm Database. 2011. Taxus Brevifolia. (http://www.conifers.org/ta/Taxus_brevifolia.php, 31 May 2011). NatureServe. 2010. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. (http://www.natureserve.org/explorer, 31 May 2011 ). USDA, NRCS. 2011. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 18 March 2011) National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA. Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. 2010. VTree ID Fact Sheet. (http://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=259, 31 May 2011).

INTERMOUNTAIN BRISTLECONE PINE

Pinus longaeva

Pine Family (Pinaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo Credit: Stan Shebs

Importance How old are the oldest plants? According to studies of the intermountain bristlecone pine, also called Great Basin bristlecone pine or the western bristlecone pine, a single tree can be over 4,800 years old. An unusually long-lived species, Pinus longaeva trees are among the oldest, if not the oldest, living organisms on earth. Even after death, the dense, resinous wood can continue to persist for hundreds and thousands of years. Because of their age and persistence, the timber from these trees provides an invaluable historical record of past environmental conditions. Tree ring chronologies dating back over 9000 years have provided surprising records of past environments. By examining the rings from these trees, scientists have found evidence of past climate change. These trees are also living genetic reservoirs. Trees over 3,000 to 4,000 years old can still produce viable seed, meaning that their offspring carry a genetic heritage thousands of years old. The diverse habitat provided by these long lived trees is important for a wide variety of

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of small birds and mammals. These pines are also an important food source for mountain bluebirds, chickadees, and other small mammals. They are suspected to be a food source for Clark’s nutcrackers, which if demonstrated, would be a key form of dispersal for this species. Great Basin bristlecone pines also contribute to community diversity. For example, they are hosts to 2 species of bark beetles that had only been collected in the White Mountains as of 2004. Because of their exposed habitats on the high, windy peaks of mountains, old, dead, and partially dying trees dominate most populations. The high winds and drought conditions on the mountain top often kills off this tree’s thin bark, killing the wood underneath. The wind then shapes the dead wood into wonderfully gnarled and twisted shapes. Their shrinking mountain habitat, slow rate of seed establishment, and slow growth, puts these trees at risk. Our changing climate further endangers their habitat while creating conditions that put these trees at increased risk of attack by pests and disease. Description Form: This small conifer has a highly variable growth form. While low-elevation trees may be tall and upright, reaching up to 50 feet (15 m), at high elevations intermountain bristlecone pine becomes twisted and contorted by the wind and harsh growing conditions, and grows very slowly. These trees can have single or multiple trunks, and the highly branched, shallow root system can be exposed in older trees.

Leaf: P. longaeva has short, curved evergreen needles. These dark green needles range from 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) long, grouped in bundles of 5 and often covered with white dots of dried resin. The needles remain on tree for 10 to 17 years, giving a bushy appearance that resembles a fox's tail. Flower: This tree is monoecious, with the small, dark orange male cones and the female cones, which often have a dark purple cast, found on the same plant. Male cones are often clustered near the ends of branches, while female cones occur singly or in pairs near the ends of branches. Fruit: The cones of this pine are moderately sized (about 3 inches or 7.5 cm long) with a short stalk. The scales are tipped with a long bristle, giving rise to its common name and the seeds are winged. Bark & Twigs: The young bark is thin, smooth, and gray-white later becoming furrowed and reddish brown. On harsh, windy sites, the bark is often stripped from older trees, leaving a high proportion of dead wood on the trunk and branches. The twigs are orange-brown when young but darkening with age. Habitat and Ecology The intermountain or Great Basin bristlecone pine is endemic to the western United States – it is found only in along the tree line in the high mountains of eastern Califorina, Nevada, and Utah. Though the range of this species has varied over time, today it is typically found between 7,200 to 12,000 feet (2,200 to 3,700 m) and occurs in dry climates that are cold in winter and droughty in summer.

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While the appearance is similar to the Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine, the ranges of these two pine species have been separated by the Colorado-Green River drainage for millennia and there is a 160 mile gap between the closest points of their ranges in Utah and Colorado, respectively. Throughout its range, Great Basin bristlecone pine grows in pure stands in timberline and upper subalpine zones. At lower elevations, the tree associates with a variety of other trees, and bristlecone pine-limber pine forests are seen throughout its range. Pollen and seeds are wind dispersed. While seeds can germinate immediately, without any additional conditions required, this pine typically grows in dry, nutrient poor soils and seedling germination is rare. Nonetheless, the tree is oven found in multi-aged stands, possibly due to the astonishing longevity of this species. Threats This slow growing tree is also slow to recruit new seedlings, meaning that mature individuals age without young individuals replacing them. Under present climatic and environmental conditions, current rates of regeneration are probably not sufficient to replace the population. Insect, parasite, and fungus attacks and the effects of a changing climate may also pose threats to this species in the future. Because of its thin bark, intermountain bristlecone pine is adapted to survive only low-severity surface fires. Increased incidence of wildfire in the western mountains may also pose a threat to this species, though the low productivity and widely spaced stands of this

pine provide poor fuel for the spread of fire. Still, the resinous individual trees are likely easy to ignite when fire is present. Conservation Action Many of the areas where the bristlecone pine occurs are protected areas such as national parks, botanical reserves, or other areas where traffic is limited and cutting or gathering wood is prohibited. Visiting our national parks or other botanical reserves as a tourist helps support the protection and future of trees in those parks and helps set aside additional land for future use. Want to visit the pines from the comfort of your home? You can learn more about ancient bristlecones in photographer Mark Schlenz’s book, A Day in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and share the book and what you learn with others. References Conifer Specialist Group. 1998. Pinus longaeva. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 30 March 2011). Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Bristlecone Pine tree profile. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_bristlecone.htm, 1 April 2011). Fryer, Janet L. 2004. Pinus longaeva. In: Fire Effects Information System, [Online]. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory (Producer). (http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/, 2011, June 9).

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NatureServe. 2010. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. (http://www.natureserve.org/explorer, 9 June 2011). Schlenz, M. and D. Flaherty (photographer). 2008. A Day in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Companion Press, Bozeman, MT. Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. 2010. VTree ID Fact Sheet. (http://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus3/factsheet.cfm?ID=946, 30 March 2011)

CHINESE MAGNOLIA

Magnolia sinica

Magnolia Family (Magnoliaceae)

Critically Endangered

Photo Credit: Jackson Xu, Flora & Fauna International

Importance What does critically endangered mean? For the Chinese magnolia, it means fewer than 100 mature trees. All of them grow in southeast China, making this one of the world’s most endangered magnolias. Also known as Manglietia sinica and Manglietiastrum sinicum, and commonly called hua gai mu in China, this tree is an important ornamental due to its fragrant, showy flowers and shiny, attractive leaves. Magnolias such as Magnolia sinica are among the oldest flowering trees in existence, so ancient they evolved before bees. Southern China is a major center of diversity for magnolias, and M. sinica is just one of 31 critically endangered species from China listed as threatened. Understanding and preserving the diversity of magnolias could provide important insights into the evolution of flowering plants.

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Description Form: M. sinica trees have been found up to 130 feet (40 m) tall on a notably straight. The trunk is somewhat buttressed at the base and can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) in diameter. Leaf: Leaves are narrow and oval shaped, with a pointed tip. They are a deep, shining green above, and pale green beneath. Flower: One of the chief diagnostic characteristics of this tree is the terminal flowers with 9 tepals arranged in three whorls. (The term “tepal” describes the structure or outer perianth of the flower, which is not differentiated into petals and sepals. Similar to the structure found in tulips, flowers composed of tepals rather than petals and sepals are characteristic of magnolias.) The flowers of this species have approximately 65 stamens and 13 to 16 carpels, with more than two ovules in each carpel; another distinguishing characteristic of the species. Fruit: The fruits proceed through green to slightly flushed to a dry brown capsule. They are oval shaped and tend to be 2 to 3.5 inches (5 to 8.5 cm) long and 1 to 2.5 inches (3.5 to 6.5 cm) wide, with 1 to 3 seeds in each carpel or chamber in the fruit. Bark & Twigs: The bark of M. sinica is gray and has fine longitudinal fissures. Habitat and Ecology This magnificent tree is confined to a small area in southeastern Yunnan Province of Southern China. In the wild, the species is known only from Wenshan Xiaoqiaogou National Nature Reserve, and the surrounding area in Yunnan. Surveys in 2005

found only 10 wild trees on slopes of evergreen broadleaf rainforest between 4200 to 5000 feet (1300 to 1550 meters) elevation in southeast Yunnan. Further searching has revealed only an additional 91 trees – all of which are found in the Wenshan Xiaoqiaogou National Nature Reserve and in the area around the reserve. Fortunately, this tree is also present in cultivation. Threats Why is the Chinese magnolia so heavily endangered? Logging and over-harvesting of this tree have decimated populations and forest clearing for agriculture has reduced the available places for this tree to grow. The tree has poor natural regeneration, and no effective protective measures are in place to preserve its only known native range. With such a tiny natural population, any changes to the habitat or climate, or a new pest threat, could wipe out the existing population. Unless action is taken to protect this species, the future survival of the Chinese magnolia does not look promising. Conservation Action Currently, there is an intensive scientific effort to grow this tree in nurseries and replant wild populations. Several thousand saplings growing in nurseries could offer a chance to decrease this beautiful tree’s chances of extinction. Kunming Institute of Botany in China is currently leading conservation initiatives to protect this tree. Protection of the Wenshan Forestry reserve, which is home to the last remaining trees, will also be of key importance in reestablishment of this species. If you’d like to take action to protect this critically endangered species, you can help support the Global Trees Campaign, which has been working to plant nursery-grown

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Chinese magnolias in the wild and to protect Wenshan Forestry Reserve. References Chen, B.L. and H.P. Nooteboom. 1993. Manglietia sinica (Y.W. Law) B.L. Chen & Noot. Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden 80(4): 1051. Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Global Trees Campaign – Magnolia sinica tree profile. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_magnolia_sinica.htm, 30 March 2011). Fauna & Flora International. 2011. Key Species. About: Magnolia sinica. (http://www.fauna-flora.org/species/magnolia-sinica/, 30 March 2011). Missouri Botanical Garden. 2011. Magnolia sinica. In: Tropicos. (http://www.tropicos.org/Name/19300429, 31 Mar 2011).

WOLLEMI PINE

Wollemia nobilis

Araucaria Family (Araucariaceae)

Critically Endangered

Photo Credit: Jaupc, Wikimedia

Importance There are many plants known from the fossil record that are no longer found in our forests. The Wollemi pine was believed to be one of these plants. Known from a fossil finding dated to 90 million years old, and part of the 200 million year old Araucariaceae family, this pine was thought have gone extinct more than 2 million years ago. However, in 1994, David Noble, a New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Services Officer, brought back a sample of an usual pine from a trip with friends in the Blue Mountains northwest of Sydney. A team of experienced botanists later declared the strange specimen a new genus with ancient lineage, making it a scientific discovery of international significance. Considered by many to be the most important botanical find of the century, the Wollemi pine is now the focus of extensive research to conserve this ancient species. The Wollemi pine takes its name from Wollemi National Park, where the pine was discovered. Wollemi is an Aboriginal word meaning "look around you, keep your eyes open and watch out." The existing population

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consists of less than 100 mature individuals. However, even those few individuals may be relics of history. Some of the older adult Wollemi pines may be more than 1000 years old due to their habit of sprouting multiple trunks (coppicing). While any given trunk may be younger, the same root stock can live for hundreds of years. Though the population is small now, these trees may have once been widespread across Gondwana, the ancient supercontinent that was once composed of Australia, Antarctica, Africa, South America, Madagascar, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent Description Form: The Wollemi Pine is a majestic conifer that grows up to 130 feet (40 m) high in the wild with a trunk diameter that can be over 3 feet (1 m). This tree's habit of spontaneously sprouting multiple trunks from its base (known as self-coppicing) has proved a vital defense in withstanding damage through fire and other natural disasters. Leaf: The unusual, drooping foliage has light green tips in spring and early summer contrasting against the older dark green foliage. The mature foliage has two ranks of leaves along the branches. This pine has the unusual habit of shedding whole branches instead of dropping leaves. Flower: The Wollemi pine is monoecious, producing both male and female flowers on the same tree. The cones of both sexes are found at the tips of the branches, with most of the female cones found at the top of the tree. Fruit: The light winged seeds are usually found in the canopy, are believed to mature in autumn and are most likely dispersed by wind movement.

Bark & Twigs: Its bark is also distinct even from related species, looking very much like bubbling chocolate. Habitat and Ecology Discovered in Wollemi National Park in a gorge only 93 miles (150 km) northwest of Sydney, Australia, the Wollemi pine is native to the Australian state of New South Wales. They are located at only two known sites within the Blue Mountains, deep in a rainforest gorge, at about half a mile above sea level (670 m and 870 m altitude), just over half a mile (1 km) apart. The exact location is kept a secret, but they are surrounded by undisturbed forest and grow on moist ledges and along a small permanent stream at the bottom of a narrow sandstone canyon in the warm temperate rainforest. This tree prefers acidic soils and can have rapid growth in light. Its long-term ability to regenerate by seed in its present locality is unknown but seems doubtful due to competition with other trees. The tree may also be able to spread via suckers. Threats While the Wollemi pine is no longer only speculation from the fossil record, it is still one of the rarest species in the world, with less than 100 mature trees in the wild. The extremely limited habitat range, slow growth to reproductive age, and slow rate of seedling recruitment in this tree means that survival of this species is a cause for grave concern. Habitat disturbance, soil compaction, collection, and the effects of climate change all pose threats to this tree. But one of the greatest threats comes from tourists. In addition to trampling seeds and seedlings, and causing soil compaction, tourists can

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introduce weeds and novel diseases to the small population. The species is currently under threat from a root rot fungus, Phytophthora cinnamomi, which is easily carried in spore form on boots or hiking gear and was likely introduced by unauthorized visitors to the site. Conservation Action To ensure protection of this newly discovered species, Wollemi pine has been listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and the NWS Threatened species Conservation Act 1995. Despite these actions, humans are actually one of the greatest threats to this species. Because visiting tourists can bring in damaging fungi and weeds from other sites and can inadvertently trample plants, the exact location of the sites are kept secret and access is restricted to a few researches who must follow strict hygiene procedures when entering the sites. Due to the small number of pines known to exist, several additional measures have been taken to ensure the continued survival of this species. In addition to protecting the habitat where the Wollemi pines are located, the population is monitored and propagation trials are under way. This species is also being preserved ex-situ, or outside of its native range, through a network of botanic gardens, arboreta, and other growers that are growing this plant and learning how to better propagate and protect it for the future. As of 2005, seeds and cultivated individuals were being made available to the public through cultivated stock. The cultivation and worldwide release of the Wollemi pine is a key component of the conservation strategy. Today, there are more plants existing in cultivation than there are in the wild.

Want to help? Visit this plant at botanic gardens and arboreta, or spread the word about the importance of conserving this unique tree by telling others about the Wollemi Pine. You can also help insure the safety of wild populations by respecting signs in national parks or refuges indicating that an area is closed to the public – this can help prevent disease introduction and trampling of rare plants. References BBC News. 2010. Rare ‘dinosaur tree’ flowers at Batford Arboretum. (http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/local/gloucestershire/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_8735000/8735764.stm, 30 April 2011). Conifer Specialist Group 1998. Wollemia nobilis. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 30 April 2011). Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Global Trees Campaign – Tree profiles. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_wollemipine.htm, 30 April 2011). Orwa et al. 2009. Wollemia nobilis. In: World AgroForestry Centre AgroForestry Tree Database. Version 4.0. (www.conifers.org/ar/Wollemia.php, 30 April 2011). Wollemi Pine Australia. 2011. (www.wollemipine.com, 30 April 2011).

WILD APPLE

Malus sieversii

Rose Family (Rosaceae)

Vulnerable

Phote credit: Phillip Forline

Importance An apple a day would not keep the doctor away without this tree. Previously known under the synonym Pyrus sieversii and also known in Asia as xin jiang ye ping guo, this sour wild apple played an important role in the food we eat today. Biogeographic and genetic studies have identified this wild apple species as the ancestor of the domestic apple. In 2010, analysis of the draft genome sequence of the domesticated apple strengthened the case that Malus sieversii is the primary ancestor of the domesticated apple. That means virtually all the apples that we eat every day are derived from this species. That also means that this species is an important genetic resource for breeding better apples in the future and protection our apple populations against future threats from disease, pests, or climate change. However, because of its limited range and exploitation, this species is vulnerable to extinction.

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Description Form: These small trees grow 7 to 32 ft tall (2 to 10 m; sometimes up to 45 ft or 14 m), with a spreading crown. Leaf: The green deciduous leaves of M. sieversii are oval shaped to narrowly oval-shaped, 2 to 4 inches long by 1 to 2 inches wide (6 to 11 by 3 to 5.5 cm), fuzzy on the underside of the leaf, particularly along the veins. The base of the leaf is wedge-shaped, rarely rounded, with softly toothed edges and a pointed tip. Flower: The flowers appear in May and are arranged in clusters 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 6 cm) in diameter of 3 to 6 blossoms. The individual flowers in these clusters are pinkish, tinged rose when in bud, and tend to be 1 to 1.5 inches (3 to 3.5 cm) in diameter, with petals rounded and wider at the top and narrowing to the base. The bracts and sepals are lance-shaped with pointed tips and slightly toothed edges. The pedicel of the flowers is approximately a half inch long (1.5 cm), and both the pedicel and sepals have a white coating of hairs. The flowers possess 20 stamens of unequal lengths, that are approximately half as long as petals and 5 styles as long or slightly longer than the stamens with white hairs at the base. Fruit: In August through October, these trees produce fruits in the form of apples. Called a pome, the fruit is a yellowish-green globe, tinged red, up to 1 to 2 inches in diameter (3 to 4.5 cm; sometimes up to 3 inches or 7 cm) in diameter. The fruit may have depressions at the stem and base. The center of the fruit (the ovary) has 5 cavities, with 2 seeds per cavity. Bark & Twigs: Twigs are dark grayish red when old, cylindrical or slightly tapering,

short, smooth and robust. They are covered with fine hairs when young and are slightly curved, but become gradually hairless as the twigs age. The opposite buds are dark red and ovoid. Habitat and Ecology The species is native to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, with the native range extending into the western part of the Tianshan Mountains and hillsides in western Junggar in China. M. sieversii is found on mountain summits, slopes, and valleys from 3600 to 5000 feet (1100 to 1600 m) and is often the dominant tree of those forests. Years of surviving on the cold, dry mountains of Kazakhstan mean that Malus sieversii may possess genetic defenses against diseases, cold, and drought that could be bred into domestic apples. Threats The apple forests of Kazakhstan are disappearing as humans bulldoze remote areas for new development, and mountain habitats are used more heavily for grazing. Over 70% of the habitat for this species in Kazakhstan has vanished in the past 30 years. Populations throughout the range of this species are suspected to have declined by 30% or more in the past three generations, and in the last 50 years, up to 90% of wild fruit forests of central Asia have been lost. As populations decline, and remaining plants are used for grafting of commercial stock and hybridization, genetic diversity is also being lost. Conservation Action The USDA has sent researchers into Kazakhstan to collect and store the genetic

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and phenotypic diversity represented in the trees from each of two of the Kazakhstan collection sites. They are currently developing core seed collections that will help preserve the maximum available genetic diversity in this species. Because of the close connection to human interests, this is also an important tree for public education. The factors that endanger this tree are common to many endangered species, and learning more about apples may help children and adults learn more about the importance of conserving biodiversity. Want to take action? Read Michael Pollan’s chapter on apples and apple genetic diversity in the book Botany of Desire and share what you learn with others. You can also make your friends aware of the plight of this tree by “liking” this species on Facebook! (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Malus-sieversii/143520648997078?sk=info) References The Flora of China Project. Malus sieversii. In: Flora of China. Missouri Botanical Garden Press, St. Louis, and Science Press, Beijing. (http://flora.huh.harvard.edu/china/index.html, 31 March 2011). Participants of the FFI/IUCN SSC Central Asian regional tree Red Listing workshop, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (11-13 July 2006) 2007. Malus sieversii. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 31 March 2011). USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. 2010. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN) [Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland.

(http://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?23275, 31 March 2011). Velasco, R. et al. 2010. The genome of the domesticated apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.). Nature Genetics 42: 833–839. Volk, G.M., Richards, C.M., Henk, A.D., Reilley, A., and Forsline, P.L. 2007. Genetic Diversity of the Malus sieversii Collection in the USDA-ARS National Plant Germplasm System. Meeting Abstract HortScience. July 16-19, 2007, Scottsdale, Arazona. 44:895. (http://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publications.htm?seq_no_115=208889, 31 March 2011).

FRASER FIR

Abies fraseri

Pine Family (Pinaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo Credit: Bill Cook

Importance Fraser fir (Abies fraseri), also called southern balsam fir and she-balsam, is a small- to medium-size tree endemic to the Appalachian Mountains; the species is restricted to the high elevations in these mountains and is not found naturally elsewhere. The largest tree on record measures almost 34 inches (86 cm) in diameter at breast height, is 87 feet (26.5 m) tall, and has a crown spread of 52 feet (15.8 m). Because of the high elevation at which Fraser fir grows, its primary value is for watershed protection and scenic attraction. The remaining natural stands of Fraser fir have very limited commercial value. However, their location in the cool climate of the loftiest peaks and ridges makes them extremely valuable for controlling erosion in southern watersheds, as they hold the shallow soil to the steep wet slopes. They are a unique scenic attraction in a region of growing recreational appeal and Fraser fir seeds and terminal buds are eaten extensively by the red squirrel. It is one of only two fir species endemic to southern Appalachian Mountains and is a key component of these ecosystems.

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In cultivation, growing and harvesting this species for Christmas trees and boughs is a multimillion-dollar business in the southern Appalachians. Because of its thick green foliage, beautiful shape, fragrance, and needles that are retained unusually well, Fraser fir is unequaled as a Christmas tree, and has been designated “The Cadillac of Christmas Trees” (Dirr 1998). It is also used widely as an ornamental landscape tree. Description Form: Fraser fir is a small to medium size tree up to 80 feet, with a very narrow, spire-like crown. Leaf: The leaves are flattened, like those of hemlock (Tsuga), but are directly attached to the twigs, instead of attached on short bases. hemlock grows at much lower elevations. The flattened needles are 0.75 inches (2 cm) long, blunt or notched at the end, shiny dark green above and silvery below. Needles are generally more dense than on the very similar balsam fir. Crushed or dried leaves are extremely fragrant, with a balsamy aroma Flower: Fraser fir is monoecious; that is, the male and female flowers exist on the same plant. Flower buds usually open from mid-May to early June. Female flowers are borne mostly in the top few feet of the crown and on the outer ends of branches, and are purple and inconspicuous. Male flowers are yellow to purple, and are borne below female flowers, but mostly in the top half of the crown. Fruit: Resinous cones are borne upright on the branches, 1.4 to 2.4 in (3.5 to 6 cm) long and 1.0 to 1.6 in (2.5 to 4 cm) wide. Cones are cylindrical, green to purple, with pointed, toothed bracts protruding from the cone scales; scales are deciduous with seed

dispersal in fall. The strongly reflexed bracts, much longer than the scales, distinguish Fraser fir from balsam fir. Bark & Twig: The bark is silvery gray-brown, smooth except for resin blisters, largest stems may become a bit scaly. Twigs are yellow-green, later turning gray; buds round, reddish brown, resinous; leaf scars are flat and rounded. Habitat and Ecology Fraser fir is distributed in separated populations on mountaintops. It is restricted to high elevations in the southern Appalachian Mountains of southwestern Virginia, western North Carolina, and eastern Tennessee. Small populations are known from six peaks, including the Smoky Mountains National Park. Under natural circumstances, this tree usually lives for approximately 150 years. Fraser fir grows at elevations as low as 4,500 ft (1,372 m) on north slopes and protected coves but is found mostly between elevations of 4,900 to 6,500 ft (1,500 to 2,000 m). It has been found as high as 6,684 ft (2,037 m) on top of Mount Mitchell, the highest point in eastern North America. Fraser fir grows well in highly acidic, shallow, and rocky soils and there is considerable variation in the soils that support this tree. The cold, moist cool-temperate rain forest climate of these elevations, known for well distributed regular rainfall, regular fog, and moderate temperatures, is key to this tree’s health. At lower elevations, Fraser fir is a minor component of the forest, increasing in frequency with altitude to form nearly pure stands at elevations above 6,300 ft (1,920 m). At middle and lower elevations, red spruce

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(Picea rubens) is a common associate of Fraser fir, while at the highest elevation, mountain-ash (Sorbus americana) is practically the only canopy associate. Fraser fir is classified as very tolerant to shade and is considered a climax species – a species that thrives when the environment has not been disturbed for a long time. The root system of Fraser fir is usually shallow because it customarily occupies shallow soils. Because of these shallow soils and shallow root systems, Fraser fir is subject to windfall, and patches of wind-thrown trees are a common sight on exposed ridges. Root growth is more rapid and rooting depth greater, however, than that of its frequent associate, red spruce. Roots are able to penetrate to depths greater than to feet where soil is available, permitting fir to occupy somewhat drier sites than red spruce. Threats Populations are small, windswept and unhealthy. Regeneration appears to be poor, with few seedlings surviving to replace mature trees. In many areas, most or all of the adult Fraser fir trees have been killed by a combination of factors, leaving behind skeleton forests. The main factor leading to the massive die-off is infestation by the introduced balsam woolly adelgid (Adelges piceae). Their feeding causes the tree to form thickened cell walls that interfere with water and nutrients uptake, ultimately starving the tree. As our climate changes, environments conducive to the increased spread of the balsam woolly adelgid are created and the remaining populations in the Appalachian Mountains are threatened due to the infestation. Air pollution in the form of ozone and acid rain may also contribute to the decline of this species.

Conservation Action To protect and preserve Fraser fir, seed collection is a top priority. Collecting seed from the remnant natural populations will preserve genetic variations within populations. This seed bank also serves as a resource for potential reintroduction to natural habitats. Management of balsam woolly adelgid populations and protection of the existing tree populations will also help conservation of this species. References Beck, Donald. 1990. Silvics of North America, Volume 1: Conifers. Agriculture Handbook 654. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Washington, DC. (http://www.na.fs.fed.us/pubs/silvics_manual/volume_1/abies/fraseri.htm, 18 March 2011) Dirr, Michael. 1998. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, 5th Edition. Stipes Publishing, L.L.C., Champaign, Illinois. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. 2010. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. (www.iucnredlist.org, 18 March 2011) Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. 2010. VTree ID Fact Sheet. (http://cnre.vt.edu/dendro/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=95, 18 March 2011) USDA, NRCS. 2011. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA. (http://plants.usda.gov, 18 March 2011)

ANHUI ELM

Ulmus gaussenii

Elm family (Ulmaceae)

Critically Endangered

Photo Credit: The Morton Arboretum

Importance Called zui weng yu in China and sometimes also called hairy elm, the Anhui elm is now possibly the rarest and most endangered elm species and one of the most endangered trees in China. This tree is important not only for its beauty and rarity – but because this tree is resistant to Dutch elm disease. American elms used to be one of the most popular street trees, lining the streets in towns all over the United States. Dutch elm disease decimated the population, killing over 100 million American elms, and is still a threat to elms today. Wild trees such as the Anhui elm that are naturally resistant to the disease provide resources for breeding new trees that can resist this and other diseases. But the tree is rarely seen in cultivation and only 30 wild trees remain. Observations at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, indicate that some of the elm species from China have excellent promise as urban trees.

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George Ware, former research director at The Morton Arboretum, spearheaded efforts in the late 1980s and 1990s to collect Chinese elms and observe them in the United States for their use as urban trees. Preserving species such as the Anhui elm increases our chances of breeding hardier trees and to retain the untapped potential of these trees for the future. Description Form: A stately tree with a spreading canopy and slender trunk, this deciduous tree can grow to over 80 feet (25 m) tall, with a trunk of over 2.5 feet (up to 80 cm) in diameter.

Leaf: The Anhui elm has glossy green oval leaves with toothed edges and pointed tips. Leaves are densely fuzzy when young, but keep their hairs only along the leaf veins as they age. As in other elms, the base is oblique – the two edges of base of the leaf do not quite line up. The petiole is 4 to 8 mm and is characteristically hairy, and the species typically has 8 to 10 secondary veins on each side of the midvein. Flower: The tiny, wind pollinated flowers have no petals, and tend to have a 4 to 5 lobed perianth (the outer flower parts) with hairy edges.

Fruit: The fruit is a large, oval to orb shaped samara 0.5 to 1 inch long (1.7 to 2.7 cm) with a rounded base. The samaras and their sort stalks are densely hairy, with the seeds in the center. Both flowers and fruits appear in March through April.

Bark & Twigs: The bark is dark gray to almost blackish, with thick, shaggy, longitudinal fissures. The twigs of this tree are densely fuzzy or hairy in the first two years,

with occasional yellowish brown spots (lenticels) and sometimes with opposite flat, corky wings. Winter buds tend to be globular and oval shaped, with hairy margins along the edges of the bud scales. Habitat and Ecology Native to the Anhui region of China, the Anhui elm is distributed over approximately 10 ha in the Langya Hills. This species is confined the valleys of limestone mountains in deciduous forest and along river banks from 2300 to 5900 feet (700 to 1800 m). The tree is often found on flood plains, indicating a tolerance for periodically wet soils and standing water. Threats Because the population of the Anhui elm – only 30 mature trees – is so small, any threat to the existing habitat could result in extinction for this species. In addition, most of the standing trees are older and may be nearing the end of their lifespan. While there is some growth of new trees in the wild, reproduction is limited. Both protecting the existing trees and extremely limited habitat for these trees and assisting with propagation of this majestic elm will be critical to the survival of the species. Conservation Action Because of the small population size of this tree and its limited distribution, protecting the existing habitat and reintroduction of new trees of these species are conservation priorities. Research on the tree, its habitat requirements and reproduction is an ongoing and crucial effort for the survival of this tree. Collaborative efforts among arboreta, botanical gardens, and scientific organizations to acquire and distribute seeds and seedlings

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for conservation efforts outside of the native habitat at those institutions are helping to aid in our understanding of this species and its reintroduction. This species is currently being cultivated in Jiangsu in Nanjing, at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Ilinois, and at other botanical institutions. Want to help? Visit or support The Morton Arboretum, which is using Anhui elms to breed more disease-resistant elm trees. References Fu, L., Xin, Y. and Whittemore, A. (2002). Ulmaceae, in Wu, Z. & Raven, P. (eds) Flora of China, Vol. 5 (Ulmaceae through Basellaceae). Science Press, Beijing, and Missouri Botanical Garden Press, St. Louis, USA. (http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242353355, 23 April 2011). World Conservation Monitoring Centre 1998. Ulmus gaussenii. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 23 April 2011). Han, X., Zhi Y.-b., Zhou Z.-z., and Gao C. 2008. The endangered characteristics and mechanism on the endemic arbor Ulmus gaussenii Cheng. Journal of Anhui University (Natural Sciences). 2008-06. DOI: CNKI:SUN:AHDX.0.2008-06-025. Ware, G. (1995). Little-known elms from China: landscape tree possibilities. Journal of Arboriculture, Nov. 1995. International Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, Illinois, USA.

MONKEY PUZZLE TREE

Araucaria araucana

Araucaria family (Araucariaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo Credit: Calle Eklund

Importance Monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria aracauna) is the National Tree of Chile, where it is called Pehuén. This tree, which was previously classified as A. imbricata and is also called piñonero, or pino araucaria in Spanish, has great historical and social importance. The tree is part of the distinctive forests of the Andean and coastal Chilean mountains, and is valued for its uniqueness and natural beauty, providing important tourism and recreational opportunities. It is the emblem of a number of national parks and provinces in both Chile and Argentina and has been declared a Natural Monument in Chile. The monkey puzzle tree is widely represented in popular culture in Chile, and has both religious and economic significance for the indigenous Mapuche people living in the southern Andes mountains. The copious seeds produced by the cones of this tree, called piñones, form an important part of the diet of one of the Mapuche tribes, the Pehuénche

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(the name of the tribe also derives from the name of the tree, and means “people of Pehuén”). The seeds have high carbohydrate content and the cooked nuts have been described as rich and delicious. The collection, storage, trade and preparation of meals from these seeds is a characteristic and part of the traditional lives of the Pehuenche people who may use the tree for fuel, wood, building materials for their homes and shelters for livestock, resin for medicinal purposes, and food in the form of the seeds. During the February – May harvest and during the long June – September winter, pehuén seeds provide a major carbohydrate source and may be as much as 10% to 15% of the diet in some Mapuche communities. Monkey puzzle wood has a high mechanical resistance and moderate resistance to fungal decay. These properties mean that it has been used for beams in buildings, bridges, piers, roofs, furniture, boat structures, veneers, and plywood. Spiritually, the tree holds the centerpiece in the altar of the harvest and fertility ceremonies of the Pehuenche people. Historically, the tall straight trunks were used as masts for sailing ships. Now that this species is protected in the wild, it is principally used as a popular ornamental in the cool temperate zone. Due to its high ornamental value, it is cultivated in gardens of Europe and America and there is at least one of this highly recognizable tree in every botanical garden in Europe. A. araucana is also used to reconstruct climatic conditions by measuring the growth rings which may go back hundreds of years.

This endemic evergreen conifer species grows naturally in temperate rainforests of south central Chile and adjacent areas in Argentina, with a notable specimen reported from Parque Nacional Conguillío in Chile reaching over 6 feet (2 m) in diameter and over 150 feet (50 m) in height. A tree ring sample containing 834 rings exists in the International Tree-Ring Data Bank (sample ARGE015, limiting dates 1140-1974), and it has been estimated that the oldest trees in this species may live for over 1,000 years. Description Form: Monkey puzzle tree is a coniferous evergreen with evenly spaced tiers of horizontal-spreading branches arranged in regular whorls about the trunk. A pyramidal shaped tree 50 to 100 or more feet (15 to 30 m) tall and 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 m) in diameter in diameter. The branches grow horizontally in whorls of five in opposite pairs. The tree loses its lower branches and develops a rounded crown with age. It looks quite similar to its near relative, the Norfolk pine. Several horticultural selections have been named, including some that are dwarf, some with yellowish foliage, and some with fewer branches and a more open habit. Leaf: The triangular armor-like leaves are distinctive, tough, leathery, and sharply pointed. Individual leaves persist on the tree for 10 to 15 years before being replaced, sometimes longer on the trunk where they may grow persist all the way to the base of the tree. The scale-like leaves are oval to lance-like in shape, 1 to 2 inches (2 to 5 cm) long, shiny green on both surfaces. The surfaces are marked with longitudinal lines and have stomata on both faces.

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Flower: This tree may be dioecious or monoecious; that is, the male and female flowers can be either on separate plants or on the same plant. The male cones can be solitary or in groups, start out erect but become pendant. The male cones are yellowish-brown, 0.25 to 0.5 inches long (.6 to 1.27 cm), 2 inches wide (5 cm), with 20 whorled scales. Between November and December female flowers start growing as spherical green cones formed by numerous scales. Female cones are erect, globular, dark brown, and 4 to 7 inches (10 to 18 cm) long by 3 to 6 inches (7 to 15 cm) wide, scales have long triangular recurved points; developing in 2 to 3 years and falling off at maturity. Fruit: Each cone releases between 120 to 200 seeds, which are bright brown to orangish, triangular in shape, 1 to 1.5 inches (2 to 4 cm) long. The nut is long and narrow with 2 small, even wings at the top that are pointed at the top. Bark & Twigs: The grey-brown bark is resinous and smooth, marked by horizontal rings made by old branch scars. Branches are horizontal to slightly drooping from the main trunk in whorls of five distributed in opposite pairs. They resemble the tails of monkeys holding onto the trunk. Habitat and Ecology The monkey puzzle tree ranges from the Coastal Cordillera mountains of Chile to the eastern slopes of the Argentinean Andes. The largest extant populations are in Chile, with highly fragmented populations on the lower slopes of the south-central Andes and restricted and highly threatened populations on the coast.

A. araucana occurs in mixed post-fire stands with the small deciduous broadleaved tree Nothofagus antarctica. It has greater longevity compared with Nothofagus species, which is important for the persistence of A. araucana in these habitats. Once established, A. araucana will grow through a sparser, shorter N. antarctica canopy, eventually overtopping it to persist in small cluster. The Patagonian forests where the monkey puzzle tree thrives are exposed to a disturbance regime characterized by recurrent volcanism and fire. Fire history reconstructions in Araucaria-Nothofagus stands have found a history of mixed fire regimes with burns varying from light underburns to crown fires, and both trees are fire tolerant. A. araucana is clearly adapted to withstand fire, with thick bark, and protected terminal buds on branches. Fire in these forests may be due to volcanic eruptions, which start fires from lava and ejected incandescent material, as well as causing occasional burial of land through thick lava flows. Natural fires started by lightning are also a factor, as were fires started by the aboriginal population prior to 1900, and later by European settlers and other groups, often associated with logging and seed collection activities. Within the first decade after fire, A. araucana seedlings or root suckers begin to establish beneath the resprouted N. antarctica canopy. The history of fire frequency and intensity on a site may largely determine population structures for these species in mixed stands. Monkey puzzle tree does best where the summers are cool and humid, and they are popular landscape oddities in England. This tree prefers full sun to partial shade, and does well in a moist, but well drained soil with regular watering. Growing in USDA climate

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zones 7 through 10, this is a relatively hardy Araucaria. Threats The IUCN reports that this species is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild due to a limited and severely fragmented distribution, coupled with ongoing decline in extent and quality of habitat. The UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre has done a recent analysis using remote sensing from 25 years of satellite images to assess the rate at which native forests are disappearing. This work shows that since 1977, 64% of the wild forest has been lost and the remaining forest has been highly fragmented. A. araucana forests have been rapidly destroyed and degraded due to logging, fire, and grazing, and many of the Chilean populations are being illegally felled in and outside national park boundaries. The declaration of the monkey puzzle tree as a Natural Monument in Chile means that logging of the species is now forbidden. This Natural Monument status has been contentious, revoked in 1987, reinstated in 1990 due to pressure from conservationists and indigenous people. During 2001-2002 thousands of hectares of native Araucaria forest were dramatically burnt in southern Chile, destroying 30,000 hectares of native forest. This included 71% of the extant area of monkey puzzle in Malleco National Reserve, where some of the trees were 2,000 years old (Environment News Service 2003). The cause of the fires is unknown but some local communities say that private owners were involved as they want to the 1990 logging ban to be revoked. There is currently pressure from landowners

to revoke the protection status and removal of this status would be a serious threat to the conservation of the species. Conservation Action Argentina and Chile have preserved forests of this rare giant in their national parks and instated protections for this important tree. Future conservation of the species will depend on the expansion of national parks protection and the development of new protected areas in the coastal mountains, especially for the most southerly populations. These coastal populations have been found to be genetically distinct from the populations in the Andean ranges, which are where most of the national parks and reserves are located. In the Chilean Coastal range, the Cordillera de Nahuelbuta, most of the monkey puzzle forests are privately owned and remain under threat due to burning, grazing, and conversion to Pinus radiata plantations. Restoration activities in protected areas, fine-scale mapping to identify small populations that require urgent restoration and education on the conservation and propagation of A. araucana for the local people will also assist in the conservation of this significant and distinctive species. In 2002, this tree was designated for protection under Appendix I of CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora; 1973, revised 2003.02.13), which forbids international trade. Because of this restriction, much of the commercial use of the tree has ceased. Inside Argentina's Lanin National Park, indigenous people are allowed to use dead wood for fuel and carvings and to collect a limited amount of seeds per family per year. Particularly in Chile, these

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privileges still provide important resources for some families. If you would like to take direct action to preserve this species, you can plant a monkey puzzle tree through the conservation gifts program at trees2mydoor.com. References Burns, B.R. 1993. Fire-induced dynamics of Araucaria araucana-Nothofagus antarctica forest in the southern Andes. Journal of Biogeography 20(6): 669-685. Conifer Specialist Group 2000. Araucaria araucana. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 30 March 2011). Earle, Christopher J., ed. 2011. Araucaria araucana. In: The Gymnosperm database. (http://www.conifers.org/ar/Araucaria_araucana.php, 30 March 2011). Environment News Service. 2003. One in Ten Tree Species at Risk of Extinction. (http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/aug2003/2003-08-04-01.asp, 30 March 2011). Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Global Trees Campaign – Tree profiles. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_monkeypuzzle.htm, 30 March 2011). Silba, J. 1986. An international census of the Coniferae. Phytologia memoir no. 8. H.N. Moldenke and A.L. Moldenke, Corvallis, OR. Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resource and Environmental Conservation. 2010. Tree Identification Fact Sheet - Araucaria araucana.

(http://cnre.vt.edu/dendro/dendrology/syllabus2/factsheet.cfm?ID=825, 30 March 2011).

SERBIAN SPRUCE

Picea omorika

Pine Family (Pinaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo credit: The Morton Arboretum

Importance Before the ice ages, Serbian spruce would have been a common sight in European forests. Adapted to grow in different locations and able to withstand heavy snowfalls due to its short, drooping branches, we know from fossilized remains that this tree once covered much of Europe. Over many years, its range narrowed dramatically. Since its discovery in 1877, fire, overexploitation, and competition from Norway spruce and oriental beech have further depleted its wild population. Today, this tree has one of the smallest ranges of any spruce, limited to a small area in southern Europe, with a population of less than 1000 mature trees. Serbian spruce is highly valued as landscape tree, and many cultivars are available in the horticultural trade. The height, slim graceful form, and drooping branches of this tree, combined with the tree’s tolerance for the poor soils, air pollution and occasional drought commonly encountered in urban environments, make it a winning tree for horticultural landscapes. Serbian spruce is also valued as a Christmas tree, for timber,

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and for paper production. Cultivation of this tree for landscape and economic uses means that the total population of this tree is larger than the remnant natural populations. However, protecting the existing habitat of this tree and the genetic diversity contained in the natural populations will be important to the future of this species. Description Form: This evergreen tree often grows to heights of 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 m), with a canopy 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.6 m) wide. Exceptional specimens may be over 100 feet (30 m) tall. Leaf: The leaves are flat needles, 0.5 to 1 inch (1.25 to 2.5 cm) long. The needles are a glossy dark green above with 2 white lines on the silvery underside, and the needles tend to point forward and overlap. Needles are pointed on young trees, while mature trees tend to have a rounded needle apex, and the needles tend to leave the petiole on stem when pulled off. Flower: The purple flowers of this tree are relatively inconspicuous. Fruit: Cones are found at the ends of branches. The cones are dark blue to purple color when young, and turn to a cinnamon brown at maturity. The mature cones are short; 1.25 to 1.75 inches (3 to 4.5 cm) long and less than 0.75 inches (2 cm) wide, and the cone scales have small toothed margins. Bark & Twigs: The bark is dark brown, and peels off in thin scales and plates.

Habitat and Ecology Native to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Serbian spruce is known from fewer than 1,000 trees. Occurring in 60 ha around the river Drina entirely within the montane forest of the Pancic Narodni Nature Reserve in the Tara Mountains, the modern distribution of this species is extremely limited. The trees standing today are believed to be a relic population of a much wider distribution range prior to Pleistocene ice ages (2.5 million years ago). It is found chiefly on calcareous soils (though occasionally on hydric soils) at 1300 to 5500 feet (400 to 1700 m) elevation, usually on steep north facing slopes, and can occur in pure stands or as part of a mixed forest. Threats The primary threat to this tree appears to come from competition with Norway spruce and Oriental beech. These more aggressive species are able to outcompete Serbian spruce, snatching opportunities for establishment of the more rare species. This pressure, combined with the small population size of the Serbian spruce, means that any change to the habitat or pressure from diseases, pests, or invasive species, could significantly affect the viability of the species. As our global climate changes, shifts to the habitat are increasingly likely. Over exploitation, and shifting fire regimes also pose threats to this species. Conservation action Though the species was logged until the early 20th century, the few remaining small stands are protected. Because the current habitat is so limited, continuing and expanding protection of the existing habitat is a high priority for conservation of this species. Propagation of

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genetically diverse seedlings, reintroduction of Serbian spruces, and ex-situ conservation of genetic material and plants from the native range will also be important to the future regeneration of the species. The tree’s importance to horticulture will help keep this species alive even in the face of threats to natural populations. Establishment of plantations to promote sustainable collection and harvesting of trees for horticultural and commercial use will help protect the limited natural populations. Want to help? Plant a Serbian spruce in your backyard or community if you can. Serbian spruce is amazingly adaptable and grows in a huge range of conditions. By planting a tree, you help compensate for loss and fragmentation of the species’ habitat. References Brand, M. 2001. Picea omorika. In: UConn Plant Database, University of Connecticut, CT. (http://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/p/picomo/picomo1.html, 13 June 2011). Conifer Specialist Group. 1998. Picea omorika. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 13 June 2011). Earle, C.J., ed. The Gymnosperm Database. 2011. Picea omorika. (www.conifers.org/pi/Picea_omorika.php, 13 June 2011). Evans, Erv. 2004. Picea omorika NC State Tree Fact Sheet. North Carolina State University, NC, USA. (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/trees-new/picea_omorika.html, 13 June 2011).

PAU BRASIL

Caesalpinia echinata

Bean Family (Fabaceae)

Endangered

Photo Credit: Valentino Liberali, Wikimedia

Importance Caesalpinia echinata, the famous Pau brasil, is the source of the name of the country, Brazil, and is endemic to the Atlantic coastal forest. Pau brasil has strong cultural links to Brazil’s social and economic history and is the national tree of Brazil. The species is famous for the dye extract taken from the heartwood, although synthetic dyes have now reduced this trade. This stately tree has been highly valued for its timber and as a source of dye and has been reduced to the edge of extinction by logging and deforestation. Exploitation still continues because this extremely dense hardwood is ideal for making bows for stringed musical instruments. In the coastal forest ecosystems of Brazil it has been noted as an important habitat for orchids and other epiphytes. It is also known as brazilwood, peachwood, brasileto, ibirapitanga, orabutã, pau-Pernambuco or pau-de-Pernambuco, and pau-rosado. For hundreds of years, pau brasil has been prized for the red dye that could be extracted from the heartwood. The name of the tree may even come from this dye: brasa means

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glowing coals and is a corruption of the local name for the tree. Because of the name, the original collectors were known as brasileiros. Even today, the tree is used locally for medicinal purposes. However, the hard, compact timber of the tree is the tree’s most valuable characteristic. Traditionally, pau brasil wood was used to make hunting tools, and the timber has been extensively harvested for use as construction timber, in cabinet making, furniture making, and other craftwork. But the wood of the pau brasil is most famous for its use in bows of violins, violas, cellos, and other stringed instruments. Because of the density of the grain, the straight, beautifully colored grain of the wood, and its tendency to be free of knots, the timber is unusually well suited for the shaping process and pressure required. No substitute bow material has been found that equals the quality of pau brasil wood, and despite trade restrictions, there is still significant trade in C. echinata for instrument making and the wood is seen as essential to the industry. A single violin bow may take over 2 pounds (up to 1 kg) of wood and may be worth up to $5000! Accordingly, the trade is worth millions of dollars and there is significant potential for illegal harvesting and trade in this species. But as this species disappears, the trade, the beautiful instruments made from its wood, and the species that depend on this tree and its role in the ecosystem will disappear as well. Description Form: This tropical or subtropical tree in the legume family can reach up to 40 feet (12 m) in height with a trunk diameter more than 25 inches (70 cm).

Leaf: The leaves are alternate, and consist of many small oblong leaflets arranged bi-pinnately. Flower: The beautiful yellow and red flowers are arranged in clusters called racemes or panicles. The flowers mostly contain both the male and female parts of the flower, though occasionally will hold only one or the other. Flowers with male parts have 10 stamens. Fruit: The fruit is a legume, usually flattened and approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) long, with the surface covered in prickles when green. Bark & Twigs: C. echinata is notable for its prickly trunk. The bark is gray and spotty, and the wood has a deep, red hue. Habitat and Ecology The species is native to Brazil and is recorded in reserves in Bahia and Pernambuco. Pau brasil is confined to the Atlantic Coastal Forest of Brazil, an ecosystem recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. It inhabits coastal regions with open forest and well-drained soils. Detailed information on the present geographical distribution of pau brasil is scarce, but in the last ten years remnant populations have been found in nine Brazilian states. The species is recorded in reserves in Bahia and Pernambuco. Determining the previous range of the species is also problematic because there are errors in the literature caused by incorrect identification and confusion with other related species. In addition to being an important tree for human use, the nectar found in flowers and in extra-floral nectaries is an important food source for insects. A good street tree in appropriate climates.

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Threats Today, only about 5% of pau brasil old growth forests remain. Deforestation due to exploitation of this wood for dye, instrument making, timber, and more, are a primary threat to this species. The extensive collection and export of the wood from pau brasil trees has resulted in the loss of large areas of forest. Until synthetic dyes became available in 1875, pursuit of dyewood resulted in the almost complete destruction of some natural stands, though some subpopulations remained in a few areas on the coastal plain. Even after synthetic alternatives to dye became available, the exploitation of timber remains a threat. There is significant waste in processing the wood for instrument bows; between 70 to 80% of harvested wood is lost as logs are converted to bow blanks and a further 70 to 80% is lost in processing these into bows. The logging of this tree also threatens the natural habitats of pau brasil, causing soil compaction and erosion. Conservation Action The remaining populations are protected in the reserves in Bahia and Pernambuco. There is also a reintroduction programme at Linareas Reserve and the species is listed on the official list of threatened Brazilian plants by IBAMA (the Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis or the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources). In addition, C. echinata was included on CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Appendix II in September 2007. However, in order to protect livelihood, an annotation exempting the finished products, the violin bows, has been incorporated, weakening the effectiveness of this measure.

A reintroduction program for pau brasil has been established at Linareas Researve and an international action plan has been developed for this species. Organizations such as Fauna & Flora International and the Global Trees Campaign are supporting education and public awareness campaigns on the conservation importance of pau brasil. While many aspects of the biology of the pau brasil and the composition and structure of the plant community in which it occurs are poorly known, researchers are working to better understand this tree and the future viability of remaining populations. Want to help? Donate to SoundWood (part of the Global Trees Campaign), a program working to save tree species used in making musical instruments. References Botanic Gardens Conservation International. 2011. Caesalpinia echinata. (http://www.bgci.org/worldwide/Caesalpinia_echinata/, 31 March 2011). Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Global Trees Campaign – Pau brasil tree profile. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_paubrasil.htm, 30 March 2011). Bailey, L. H. 1976. Caesalpinia echinata. Hortus Third: A Concise Dictionary of Plants Cultivated in the United States and Canada. Macmillan, New York, NY. Mabberley, D. J. 1997. Mabberley’s Plant-Book: A Portable Dictionary of the Vascular Plants, 2nd ed. Cambridge University Press, New York, NY. Mejía, Elena and Buitrón, Ximena. 2008. Brazilwood (Caesalpinia echinata) in Brazil. NDF Workshop Case Studies, WG 1 – Trees,

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Case Study 5. Comisión Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la Biodiversidad, Delegación Tlalpan, Mexico. (http://www.conabio.gob.mx/institucion/cooperacion_internacional/TallerNDF/Links-Documentos/Casos%20de%20Estudio/Trees/WG1%20CS5.pdf, 31 March 2011). USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. 2010. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN) [Online Database]. National Germplasm Resources Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland (http://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?8286, 31 March 2011). Rymer, Russ. 2004. Saving the Music Tree. Smithsonian 35: 52-63. Varty, N. 1998. Caesalpinia echinata. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 31 March 2011).

BIG-LEAF MAHOGANY

Swietenia macrophylla

Mahogany family (Meliaceae)

Vulnerable

Photo Credit: J.M. Garg (Creative Commons license)

Importance Big-leafed mahogany is the most valuable and most extensively traded of the three American mahogany (Swietenia) species. The wood is highly prized for its density and strength, fine grain, and rich, red sheen. Around 1597, Sir Walter Raleigh presented a mahogany table to Queen Elizabeth I as a gift. Since that time, mahogany has been the wood of choice for high quality furniture and is widely used to in furniture, paneling, lumber, and musical instruments. Big-Leaf Mahogany is native to Central and South America, growing from southern Mexico to north-central Bolivia. This tree is known by many different common names in the regions where it is found, and trade in the species is critical to local economies in the states where S. macrophylla grows. The name of the species actually describes some of its characteristics: the specific epithet, macrophylla, means large leaved and comes from Greek words makros (large) and phyllon (leaf).

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Description Form: A very large timber tree, Big-Leaf Mahogany can reach heights of 100 to 130 feet (30 to 40 m) and a girth of 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4 m); in favorable conditions it can reach 200 feet (60 m) high and 30 feet (9 m) in girth! The trunk is straight and cylindrical with a buttressed base.

Leaf: The leaves of this tree are compound, with opposite leaflets and no terminal leaflets (parapinnate). Leaves can over 20 inches (60 cm) long, with 6 to 16 lance shaped leaflets. Leaves are light green or reddish when young and deepen to a glossy dark green when mature.

Flower: If you could climb to the canopy, you would be delighted by sprays of greenish-white flowers, approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) across with pointed petals. The sprays, or panicles are about 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm) long and fragrant. Flowering mahogany trees have male and female flowers, with about 10 times as many male as female flowers, but the flowers of both sexes are similar. Trees are sometimes functionally dioecious, with flowers functioning as male or female flowers found on different trees.

Fruit: The fruit is an erect woody capsule resembling a large inverted club, about 5 inches (12.5 cm) long. Flowering and fruiting are distinctly seasonal. Fruit may be produced once a year and trees start to produce fruit regularly when about 15 years old. Seeds have a thin, tail-like wing that makes them rotate when they fall; they are thus dispersed by wind as far as 1640 feet (500 m) from the parent tree

Bark & Twigs: The dark brown bark is rough, often flaking off in small patches, and has a sweet odor.

Habitat and Ecology Big-leaf mahogany has a wide geographical and ecological range, growing in Mexico, the Central American countries of Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama and the South American countries of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Big-Leaf Mahogany grows naturally in wet and dry tropical forests and on a variety of soil types, up to 1 mile above sea level (0 to 1500 m altitude). Basic inventories are lacking for most of its range, though good stands apparently still remain in parts of Brazil and Bolivia. S. macrophylla is found in all forest types, from the edge of the pine savannah to the climax rainforest, but mostly in mixed hardwood forest belts, along riverbanks, on deep river-shaped soils of considerable fertility. It occurs scattered or in small groups, but densities of more than 4 to 8 trees/ha are rarely encountered. It can be among the pioneer species reoccupying degraded agricultural land, and has been reported to be very firm in wind, resistant to cyclones. The species has some weed potential and may invade native forest communities, especially following disturbance. Because of this weedy habit, and due to the pressure to harvest, this tree should not be planted in close proximity to areas of high nature conservation significance. The ecology of northern subpopulations is relatively well understood whereas virtually nothing is known about Amazonian subpopulations.

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Threats This species is the most commercially important of the mahoganies. Because of the high demand for this species, exploitation has led to the exhaustion of supplies particularly in the northern parts of its range. Bolivia, once the world’s largest producer, has nearly run out of mahogany to log. Worse, the species is nearly extinct in Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica; declining in Mexico, Belize, Brazil; and is in severe decline in Guatemala, Peru, Nicaragua, and Honduras. The majority of mahogany entering into trade is from unmanaged natural forests. Over-harvesting from these forests and illegal logging are decimating the populations of the tree in its native range. In addition, the high prices that mahogany fetches pay for the construction of roads into areas that would otherwise be inaccessible to commercial logging, causing erosion and soil degradation, and impacting other plant and animal life. Growth of new trees in natural forests is random, and depends upon large scale disturbance events, meaning that harvested trees are not replaced by new trees. Unfortunately, there is currently little economic incentive to manage natural stands sustainably. Conservation Action Big-leaf mahogany has been protected under Appendix II of CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna since 2003. This convention restricts international trade in wood from the Central and South American populations of the species, including logs, sawn wood, veneer sheets and plywood, though export quotas have been granted to certain countries. S. macrophylla is being successfully cultivated, at various areas

around the world, including India, the Solomon Islands, Haiti, and Indonesia, where there are over 54,000 ha of plantations in Indonesia, mainly in West Java. The establishment of these managed forests may help promote sustainable mahogany harvests, but the high value of the wood will always provide an incentive for harvesting natural forests as long as there is a market. Despite these protections, illegal cutting remains a big problem for big-leaf mahogany, since it sells for high prices. Want to help? Only buy mahogany from certified forests, such as products that carry the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) trademark. You can also support mahogany restoration work in Belize through the Global Trees Initiative’s Conservation Gifts program at Tree2MyDoor.com – visit their site for more information and to plant a mahogany tree as a gift. References Global Trees Campaign. 2008. Global Trees Campaign – Tree profiles. (http://www.globaltrees.org/tp_swieteniamacrophylla.htm, 7 June 2011). Mejía, E., X. Buitrón, M. Peña-Claros, James Grogan. 2008. Big-Leaf Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) in Peru, Bolivia and Brazil. NDF Workshop Case Studies, WG 1 – Trees, Case Study 5. Comisión Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la Biodiversidad, Delegación Tlalpan, Mexico. (http://www.conabio.gob.mx/institucion/cooperacion_internacional/TallerNDF/Links-Documentos/Casos%20de%20Estudio/Trees/WG1%20CS4.pdf, 7 June 2011). Orwa et al. 2009. Swietenia macrophylla. In: World AgroForestry Centre AgroForestry

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Tree Database. Version 4.0. (http://www.worldagroforestrycentre.org/resources/databases/agroforestree, 7 June 2011). World Conservation Monitoring Centre 1998. Swietenia macrophylla. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 7 June 2011).

DAWN REDWOOD

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Cypress family (Cupressaceae)

Critically Endangered

Photo Credit: Richard Carter

Importance This tree is another success story of botanical exploration. Though fossil records showed that this tree once grew throughout Eastern Asia and parts of the United States, the dawn redwood was thought to be extinct until the 1940s. In 1941, a Chinese botanist, T. Kan, of the National Central University, discovered a living specimen near the village of Modaoqi, south-east of Wanxian, in Sichuan, China. Specimens of this tree were subsequently located by other botanists, and the tree was reintroduced into the United States in 1948 through a collaboration of Chinese botanists and botanists from the Arnold Arboretum, where it caused a sensation in the botanical community. The dawn redwood is another example of a “living fossil” tree. Fossils found of this tree date back nearly 100 million years, to the late Cretaceous period of the Mesozoic era, when dinosaurs still walked the earth. Known as water fir, water larch, and shui shan in China (literally, water fir). This tree closely resembles the American species bald cypress, but can be distinguished by the opposite buds.

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Today, the dawn redwood is highly valued as a landscape specimen for its beauty, hardiness, adoptability, and resistance to pests and diseases, and several horticultural selections have been made. The tree is extensively planted as a street tree in China. However, the success of the species depends on the continued survival of trees in natural populations. The few currently remaining wild trees are disappearing as forests are cleared to create farmland. Description Form: Dawn redwood has a very straight, single trunk with numerous branches forming a narrow conical crown. The young trees grow rapidly and this tree is capable of reaching heights well over 100 feet (30 m) tall. This tree can develop a buttressed trunk, with a tapered base exhibiting a braided, fluted structure and a wide, shallow, and aggressive root system. Leaf: The leaves of this tree are opposite flat linear needles, lying flattened along both sides of the twig. This conifer is usually deciduous, dropping its needles in the fall. The leaf and deciduous branchlet structure resembles a feathery compound leaf, with the green to yellow-green needles directly opposite each other. The needles turn a unique pinkish tan to reddish bronze color in the fall before dropping. Flower: Dawn redwood is monoecious, with male and female flowers on the same tree. The male flowers are a light yellow brown, in narrow hanging clusters up to 12 inches (30 cm) long. The female flowers are yellow-green, solitary and upright with fused scales. Fruit: The elongated or rounded cones tend to be box-like, with four sides. The cones hang on long stalks, are a whitish blue when young,

growing to 0.5 to 1 inch (1.2 to 2.5 cm) long and becoming brown when mature. The flat, shields-shaped scales contain small, winged seeds which mature in late fall. Bark & Twigs: The bark of the dawn redwood is an attractive, fibrous reddish brown color, with bark that exfoliates in strips to develop an irregular fluted pattern. Twigs are slender, light reddish brown in color, smooth, with short, buff colored, opposite, cylindrical buds protruding at right angles. Habitat and Ecology Native to China, this tree is known from sites in Shizhu in Sichuan, Lichuan in Hubei and Longshan and Sangzhi in Hunan. Dawn redwood is usually confined to slightly waterlogged areas of open forest, stream banks, and floodplains. However, fossil records indicate that this tree was widely distributed throughout Eastern Asia and abundant in the United States (Pacific Northwest) during Oligocene period (38 million years ago). Threats While this tree was once widely distributed, today, the wild populations of dawn redwood are confined to a few relatively small areas in China. The subpopulations appear to have been reduced to a few mature individuals, about 1000 trees all together. The areas surrounding the forests where this tree is found heavily cultivated and the forests where the tree is found are in imminent danger of being converted to farmland. Currently, the tree does not reproduce well, and is highly sensitive to disturbances such as those from agriculture, making prospects for natural regeneration poor. The impact of climate change on such limited habitat could

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further disrupt the sensitive populations of this species. Conservation Action While the wild populations are limited, since its reintroduction, this tree has been grown extensively in cultivation. Grown both in botanical institutions and as a landscape tree, you can now see this tree in many parts of the world, and several cultivars are available. However, the specimens currently in botanical collections have relatively little genetic diversity, making the diversity available in the wild populations critical to the success of this species. Conservation priorities include protection of the existing natural populations, and restoration of the species through reintroduction of genetically diverse trees. Several collaborative efforts exist to promote the protection, education, and reintroduction of these trees. Want to help? Contact your local U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the American Public Gardens Association or Botanic Gardens Conservation International to find out whether dawn redwoods grow in your community. Visit a tree near you, learn more about it, and share it with your friends. You can also plant your own dawn redwood tree in your yard or community, or support organizations such as the Save the Redwoods League that are dedicated to redwood conservation and education. References Brand, M. 2001. Metasequoia glyptostroboides. In: UConn Plant Database, University of Connecticut, CT. (http://www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/m/metgly/metgly1.html, 10 June 2011).

Conifer Specialist Group 1998. Metasequoia glyptostroboides. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 10 June 2011). Earle, C.J., ed. The Gymnosperm Database. 2011. Metasequoia glyptostroboides. (http://www.conifers.org/cu/Metasequoia.php10 June 2011). USDA, NRCS. 2011. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 10 June 2011) National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA. Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation. 2010. VTree ID Fact Sheet. (http://dendro.cnre.vt.edu/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=98, 10 June 2011). Yang, H. 1999. From fossils to molecules, the Metasequoia tale continues. Arnoldia 59: 60-71.

FRANKLIN TREE

Franklinia alatamaha Bartram ex. Marsh

Tea Family (Theaceae)

Extinct in the Wild

Photo Credit: Edward S. Ayensu, USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

Importance Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha), also called lost camellia or Franklinia, is an unusually beautiful tree that is also one of the rarest trees in the world. Discovered in Georgia in the mid-eighteenth century, the Franklin tree was last recorded in the wild by a nurseryman and plant collector in 1803. Despite extensive searching in for specimens in the wild, no additional trees have been found anywhere in Georgia or elsewhere in the world. Today, all known specimens are in cultivation. This native tree was collected from the banks of the Altamaha River in southeastern Georgia by John Bartam and his son William in 1765 and has been extinct in the wild since 1803. They named the tree in honor of their friend Benjamin Franklin and the river beside which they had found it (the species name, alatamaha, reflects the Bartrams' variant spelling of Altamaha). It has been perpetuated in cultivation because of its attractive flowers and foliage. Franklin tree is a member of the tea family and is closely related to Stewartia and Gordonia (loblolly bay). In his book Travels, William Bartram describes it as a

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beautiful shrub that appeared to be related to loblolly bay, but with larger and more fragrant flowers. William Bartram later noted that the only spot where he had seen it in all of his explorations was on the 2- to 3-acre site along the Altamaha River, where it grew in abundance. Since the last definitive sighting of the tree in nature in 1803, many have continued to search for the tree, and some accounts describe spotting it along the Altamaha River as late as the 1840s. Fortunately, the Bartrams had taken plants and seeds home to Philadelphia, where they propagated the plant. All Franklin trees today are descendants of the Bartrams' specimens. Today, this tree is propagated by botanical gardens, arboreta, and astute gardeners as a specimen tree or large shrub valued for its beauty, late summer flowers, good fall color, and interesting history. This is a tree that deserves a prominent location in the landscape. In 1969 a set of four U.S. postal stamps was issued, each bearing a plant associated with one of the four regions of the country. Franklinia was chosen to represent the South. Description Form: Franklin tree is a small, deciduous, understory tree with a rounded crown or a multi-stemmed shrub. As a single trunk tree, it can grow to 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 m) tall or more, but is more often seen growing much shorter. It can range from 6 to 15 feet (1.5 to 4.5 m) wide, depending on its form. Leaf: Narrow, oblong and wider at the tip, leaves are glossy dark green and up to 5 inches (13 cm) long. Leaves are alternate and simple, with conspicuous fall color. Look for

this tree to turn striking shades of orange, pink, red, maroon, and purple in autumn and to hold its leaves late into the fall. Flower: One of the highlights of this tree is the camellia-like, sweetly fragrant, snow white flowers. These showy flowers are cup-shaped and 5-petaled, up to 3 inches (8 cm) diameter, with centers of bushy egg yolk yellow stamens. The flowers bloom in late summer to early fall and will flower until early frost. Fruit: Dry rounded brown fruit up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Seeds appear and fall in the autumn. Bark & Twig: The branches are low on the trunk, with white stripes along bark; older bark is grey. The tree has greenish brown twigs and is an interesting winter specimen. Habitat and Ecology Originally occurring along the banks of Altamaha River in McIntosh County on the Coastal Plain of Georgia, the only known colony occurred in acidic bogs at the heads of sand-hill branches. This perennial species has a moderate growth rate and may take some time to establish. This tree can be grown from climate zones 6 through 9, and is best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. This small tree grows well in acidic soils, but dislikes wet sites. It is best in full sun in northern climates, but appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Franklin tree may not be reliably winter hardy in the northern parts of USDA Zone 5 and should be planted in a protected location in northerly locations. Its sparsely fibrous root system makes it difficult to transplant and it is best left undisturbed

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once planted in the landscape. It can be propagated by cuttings and bare root plantings as well as by seed. Wilt and root rot can be serious problems. While it is an elegant landscape tree, it does not tolerate urban conditions well. Threats While William Bartram’s notes report that this tree was once numerous along the Alatahama river, its only known geographic range was extremely limited and the species has not been seen in the wild since 1803. It is thought to have been brought to extinction largely through over-collection by nurserymen. Numerous expeditions to relocate the plant in the wild have failed. Fortunately, it is now a popular garden plant and lives on in cultivation. Conservation Action Franklin tree can be propagated by seeds or by rooted cuttings and is being grown and conserved ex-situ (outside of its original habitat) by botanic gardens and arboreta. Today efforts are being made to restore the tree to the wild by planting specimens near the site where they were originally discovered. It can also be grown by gardeners and horticulturalists in the eastern United States. Would this tree make an elegant addition to your yard? You can also support this tree’s conservation by being an ecotourist. Visit John Bartram’s 18th century home near Philadelphia or find a botanic garden that grows Franklin trees.

References Evans, Erv. 2004. Franklin Tree NC State Tree Fact Sheet. North Carolina State University, NC, USA. (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/trees-new/franklinia_alatamaha.html, 30 March 2011). Merkle, Scott A. 2008. Franklin Tree. In: The New Georgia Encyclopedia. Georgia Humanities Council, Atlanta, GA, USA. (http://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/nge/Article.jsp?id=h-941, 30 March 2011). Missouri Botanical Garden. Kemper Center for Home Gardening Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, MO, USA. (http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/plant.asp?code=Q160, 30 March 2011). World Conservation Monitoring Centre. 1998. Franklinia alatamaha. In: IUCN 2010. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2010.4. (www.iucnredlist.org, 30 March 2011).

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ACTION FOR THE FUTURE Conserving trees for our future How do we protect these and other vanishing tree species for the future? Scientists, governments, botanical gardens and arboreta, and conservation organizations around the world are working every day to protect trees. There are three primary sets of actions being taken: • Halting the degradation of tree habitats and rehabilitating land already damaged. Protecting air

and water from pollution, reducing global carbon emissions, limiting the use of land for grazing and agriculture, managing lands for agricultural production in a sustainable manner consistent with conserving plant biodiversity, and using selective logging practices will all help protect tree habitats. Reforestation and restoration of natural habitats will further improve the habitats that are critical to the survival of threatened trees.

• Conserving as much as possible of the remaining natural and semi-natural vegetation. Strategic

creation of reserves and other protected lands in areas identified as important for conservation of threatened tree species or for worldwide plant biodiversity will protect critical habitats and resources for the future. Local and international restrictions on the trade of threatened species through regulation by local governments or through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) can also play a key role in reducing or halting overharvesting of threatened species.

• Preserving the genetic diversity of the world’s trees by collecting seeds in seed banks and by

cultivating and studying plants outside of their natural habitat in botanical gardens and arboreta, other scientific institutions, and in the landscape. In some cases, these seeds and cultivated plants can be used as reservoir to repopulate natural habitats where tree species have gone extinct or are in danger of extinction.

While work is clearly still needed to achieve the international goals for tree and plant conservation, there is already a great deal of work being done to protect trees and there are clear actions that can be taken immediately to move toward these goals.

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How Can You Help? While the conservation tasks and goals ahead can seem lofty, there are simple steps that all of us can easily take to have a major impact on tree conservation: • Recycle all wood and paper. Using resources wisely takes some of the burden off habitats facing

destruction.

• Reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change by walking, riding a bike, or taking public transportation rather than driving. You can also reduce carbon emissions by making changes in your home and in your workplace to help conserve energy.

• Find a recent book on endangered trees and tree heroes, such as Ann Linnea’s Keepers of the Trees: A Guide to Re-Greening North America or Arnold Newman’s The Tropical Rainforest: A World Survey of Our Most Valuable Endangered Habitat. Read it with friends and start a discussion.

• If your community or home is a suitable environment, plant a tree! You can even plant some of the trees described in this exhibit; just make sure that your tree distributor obtains their seeds or saplings according to the sustainable practices for that species.

• Volunteer to help manage and restore natural areas in your community. In many communities, you can also volunteer to help monitor and control the spread of invasive species that can damage plant populations.

• Support your local arboretum or botanic garden or organizations such as The Global Trees Campaign or Plantlife International that are working to preserve the threatened trees and plants of the world.

• Tell a friend about this exhibit and about the importance of conserving threatened trees!

Does one of these steps sound appealing to you? Try it out today…and help protect trees for our future. Acknowledgements and Additional Resources The Vanishing Acts: Trees Under Threat exhibit was created by The Morton Arboretum in partnership with Botanical Gardens Conservation International and The Global Trees Campaign. The Arboretum is grateful to the Institute for Museum and Library Sciences (IMLS) for funding for the exhibit. Tree silhouettes were created by Karen Johnson for The Morton Arboretum.

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Want to learn more about endangered and threatened trees, and how you can help? The following websites contain more information: ARKive: Images of Life on Earth: www.arkive.org

Botanic Gardens Conservation International: www.bgci.org

IUCN (The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources): www.iucn.org and www.iucnredlist.org

Center for Forestry Research (CIFOR): www.cifor.cgiar.org

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES): www.cites.org

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): www.biodiv.org

Fauna and Flora International: www.fauna-flora.org

Forest Stewardship Council: www.fsc.org

The Global Trees Campaign: www.globaltrees.org

The Morton Arboretum: www.mortonarb.org

People and Plants International: www.peopleandplants.org

Plantlife International: www.plantlife.org.uk

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: www.rbgkew.org.uk

USDA Plants database: plants.usda.gov

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered Species Program: www.fws.gov/endangered/

World Resources Institute: www.wri.org

This traveling exhibit is made possible by a grant from:

© 2011. The Morton Arboretum