For those of you who missed the information last year, I can confirm that seeds of the rare, endemic Himantoglossum samariense - Cretan Lizard Orchid are snuggled up safely in the laboratories of the Botanic Gardens of Budapest in the care of Eszter R. Ezeki and with the help of Erika Penzesne Konya of Eszterhazy Karoly Foiskola in Eger, Hungary. According to Eszter, it could take up to twelve months to germinate, so it isn't a quick fix. However, if we do manage to raise some viable plants, they will eventually be returned to the wild in safe areas in the west and east of Crete. I am so excited about this project, which has been built on goodwill and friendship and with the added help of the Chair and Committee of PlantaEuropa. Also to Tony Haskins and Willie Rumboll on the ground in Crete. Great job everyone!
Wow, interesting. What a shame the safety of our endemic plants has to be "farmed out" to other countries.
ReplyDeleteHi Amanda, I'm afraid it all comes down to money and willingness...and Budapest Botanic Gardens have a track record on growing Himantoglossum from seed. So we all have our fingers crossed.
DeleteHi Amanda, I'm afraid it all comes down to money and willingness...and Budapest Botanic Gardens have a track record on growing Himantoglossum from seed. So we all have our fingers crossed.
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