In September 1994, modern day explorer David Noble, an officer with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, came across some trees he didn’t quite recognise. In a deep, narrow canyon of the rugged wilderness of Wollemi National Park, he learnt of what is now called the Wollemi Pine, Wollemia nobilis.
The significance of the Wollemi Pine is that its evolutionary line was thought to be long extinct. Scientists have been undertaking research to learn about this unique and ancient plant to ensure its long-term survival.
As part of the conservation strategy, researchers at the Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan, began developing propagation techniques to establish a collection of plants for further research, translocation and to provide plant material for sale. Wollemi Pine trees continue to grow in their natural habitat and now also in botanic gardens, parks and people’s gardens throughout the world.
View the image gallery to follow the journey of the Wollemi Pine from sighting of the wild population in 1994, research and its protection, to being able to purchase potted Wollemi Pine plants today.
Read the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Wollemi Pine.