Discovery of a Unique Botanical Find
Back in August 1927, Chinese botanist Chung Quan Guang stumbled upon a tree like no other on Mount Putuo in Zhejiang province. Intrigued, he collected samples, but it wasn't until 1932 that Professor Zheng Wanjun identified it as belonging to the Carpinus (Hornbeam) genus of the Betulaceae family. Due to its unique location on Mount Putuo, it was named the "Mount Putuo Carpinus Tree" or "Mount Putuo Hornbeam."
The Sole Survivor
Over time, deforestation and land clearing decimated the population of these trees, leaving only a single specimen growing in the Huiji Temple on Mount Putuo. This tree became known as "Earth's Only Child," a testament to its rarity. Scientists estimated its age at 250 years, with a height of 14 meters and a diameter of over 60 centimeters. Its distinctive gray bark and large, dark green leaves stood out amidst the ancient landscape.
Heightened Protection
News of the Mount Putuo Carpinus Tree spread, attracting visitors from afar. To protect this precious specimen, the government assigned 24/7 security personnel. However, botanists realized that this measure alone was insufficient.
The Challenge of Reproduction
Despite its remarkable age, the Mount Putuo Carpinus Tree showed poor natural reproduction capabilities. Botanists had observed no seedlings growing beneath it, indicating the difficulty of its natural propagation. As a result, they embarked on a mission to artificially propagate the species.
Artificial Propagation and Space Travel
Since 2000, a research team has dedicated themselves to this task, utilizing various sexual and asexual reproductive techniques. Their efforts have led to the creation of over 40,000 saplings, a remarkable achievement in the conservation of this endangered species. These saplings have been distributed to other locations for further propagation and preservation.
Furthermore, the Mount Putuo Carpinus Tree embarked on a celestial journey aboard the Tiangong-1 space station in 2011 as part of an experiment to study plant reproduction in space.
Recovery from the Brink
Today, through the tireless efforts of scientists and conservationists, the Mount Putuo Carpinus Tree is no longer on the brink of extinction. Its legacy lives on through its numerous offspring, ensuring the survival of this botanical treasure for generations to come.