A retired British couple from Worcestershire has cultivated a rare prehistoric tree in their garden that has unexpectedly turned into a valuable source of income. Pamela and Alistair Thompson, both 75, planted a Wollemi pine sapling 13 years ago, purchased for just £70. The Wollemi pine, often referred to as a “living fossil”, was believed to be extinct until its rediscovery in 1994 and dates back over 90 million years to the age of the dinosaurs.
Over the years, the couple carefully nurtured the tree, unaware of the financial potential it held. This summer, their patience paid off when the tree produced its first female cone, yielding around 500 viable seeds. These seeds are highly sought after due to the extreme rarity of the species. On the online market, a single seed can fetch over £0.79, while young saplings can sell for as much as £790.
The total estimated value of the seeds from the couple’s harvest exceeds more than £4,700. However, the Thompsons have no intention of profiting personally. Instead, they plan to sell the seeds in small, affordable batches to plant enthusiasts, with all proceeds going to charitable causes.
Their remarkable botanical success story has drawn public interest, and the couple intends to open their garden to visitors wishing to see the rare Wollemi pine in person. Their initiative not only preserves a piece of ancient natural history but also supports modern-day philanthropy, turning a curiosity into a legacy of generosity.
