Ex Situ Conservation of the Endemic Wild Camellia in Vietnam

Funded via the Global Botanic Garden Fund by The Botanist. Project completed: 2022

Ex situ conservation of endemic and endangered wild Camellia dilinhensis Tran and Luong at Central Highlands, Vietnam

Project partner: The Forest Science Institute of Central Highlands and South of Central Vietnam

Project goal

The Forest Science Institute of Central Highlands and South of Central Vietnam’s (FSIH) project undertook much needed research to establish the full range, population size and trends for C. dilinhensis, as well as establish ex situ collections to safeguard its survival. With Lam Vien Arboretum a strictly protected area in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, it will be an ideal location to begin ex situ work for C. dilinhensis. Their goal was to contribute towards a greater understanding and recognition of the species in order to guide targeted conservation action.

Prepared to plant the trees

Species targeted

Camellia dilinhensis, known only from one location, is listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered due to its highly restricted range in Di Linh district, Lam Dong province in Vietnam. Adding to this, the low natural regeneration ability of the already small population places further pressure on the species’ survival. Until now, there haven’t been any active conservation efforts in place.

Key achievements

A field survey of C. dilinhensis to assess conservation status was performed. Because the collection and propagation of seeds is difficult, through the project 100 grafted trees of C. dilinhensis were created. The project has planted a total of 100 grafted trees at Lam Vien Arboretum, including 40 trees at Cam Ly substation and 60 trees at Lang Hanh Substation.