cypress

by Elizabeth Henry

Vulnerable natural cypress forests in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan may soon be facing a more secure future thanks to a new conservation partnership between local organisations and Scotland-based horticulturists.

A team from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is working with local officials in Bhutan's Dangchu Valley to create a conservation programme for the Tsenden, Bhutan's national tree.

Cupressus torulosa, referred to as the "Sacred Cypress", is essential in the construction and restoration of sacred temples.