In the heart of Guangzhou City, the South China Botanical Garden is bridging continents with its latest showcase—a meticulously curated collection of plant specimens from Peru. Among the 6,300 species now housed within the garden’s extensive collection, one stands out: the Queen of the Andes.
Affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the garden’s collection of Peruvian plant specimens has grown remarkably over the past decade, expanding from just a few hundred to thousands. This expansion signifies a deepening collaboration between China and Peru in the field of biodiversity conservation.
The Queen of the Andes, known scientifically as Puya raimondii, is a botanical marvel native to the high Andes of Peru. Growing exclusively at elevations between 3,000 and 4,800 meters, this plant is revered as a treasure in its homeland. With its towering height exceeding 10 meters, it holds the title of the largest bromeliad on Earth.
“This species is not just impressive in size; it’s a symbol of biodiversity and ecological significance,” said Ge Xuejun, a researcher at the South China Botanical Garden. “Having it here allows us to study and promote conservation efforts for such unique plants.”
The inclusion of the Queen of the Andes in the garden’s collection underscores the importance of international cooperation in protecting global biodiversity. Through shared knowledge and resources, China and Peru are taking significant steps to preserve rare species and promote ecological sustainability.
The South China Botanical Garden’s dedication to showcasing and studying such specimens offers valuable insights for academics, researchers, and nature enthusiasts alike. It serves as a living testament to the potential of cross-border collaboration in addressing environmental challenges and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
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'Treasure' plant drives China-Peru cooperation to protect biodiversity
cgtn.com
