Last-of-its-kind tree clinging to cliffside finds new hope at botanic gardens
Conservationists are working to prevent the extinction of the Dendroseris neriifolia tree, a critically endangered species found only on Chile's Juan Fernández Islands. The last known wild individual of this species is clinging to a cliffside, and seeds have been sent to the Millennium Seed Bank in the UK for safeguarding and conservation. Scientists are conducting emergency germination trials in an effort to grow new plants and secure seeds for long-term conservation.
- ▪The Dendroseris neriifolia tree is a critically endangered species with only one known wild individual remaining.
- ▪Seeds from the last known wild individual have been sent to the Millennium Seed Bank in the UK for conservation.
- ▪Seven seedlings are currently establishing, with three to be sent to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for further conservation efforts.
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May 29, 2026 Last-of-its-kind tree clinging to cliffside finds new hope at botanic gardens by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew edited by Stephanie Baum, reviewed by Robert Egan Stephanie Baum Scientific Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Robert Egan Associate Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked trusted source proofread The GIST Add as preferred source Experts collecting the seeds of the last known specimen D. neriifolia on Robinson Crusoe Island, Chile.
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