An important part of the Arboretum’s mission is to help conserve threatened plant species and educate the public on this important topic. One of the most endangered tree species on the planet is the Florida torreya (Torreya taxifolia), a small conifer now restricted to a tiny native range in northern Florida and adjacent Georgia. The Arboretum has a thriving specimen in the Woodland Garden dating to 1972 and derived from native-sourced seed.
In the latest issue of the Arboretum Bulletin, landscape architect Jason Morse tells the story of the torreya’s plight, and how botanic gardens like Washington Park Arboretum are helping preserve the species as it faces an uncertain future.
PHOTO: Foliage of the Florida torreya specimen in the Woodland Garden. (Niall Dunne)
