Jerusalem Botanical Garden Adds Five Rare Wildflower Species to Conservation Project

The Jerusalem Botanical Garden has expanded its Wildflower Project by adding five new rare Israeli wildflower species to its seed collection, now totaling around 60 species. The initiative aims to promote the use of native wild plants in private and public gardening to help preserve biodiversity and restore natural habitats in everyday environments.

For over 40 years, the university-affiliated garden on Givat Ram has collected, cultivated, and distributed hundreds of thousands of seeds annually, processed with the help of staff and nature enthusiasts. These seeds are adapted to Israel's climate and growing conditions, enabling gardeners to enjoy local blooms while supporting nature conservation.

Among the newly added species are the rare annual red-flowered Praga Macrina, which survives mainly in traditional agricultural fields, and the White Stork's Bill, a rare coastal and mountainous plant. The collection also includes the sticky chrysanthemum, known for attracting many pollinators, the endangered Galilean Yabshush, which blooms in early summer with delicate flowers, and the White Shikaron, a rare wild plant thriving in semi-shaded rocky areas.

Ori Gilad, project manager, emphasized that planting native wildflowers not only beautifies gardens but also strengthens biodiversity in urban areas, supports pollinators, and promotes ecological sustainability. He encouraged the public to participate in restoring nature to home and community spaces.

Seeds from the Wildflower Project are available for purchase through the Botanical Garden's website at https://seed-store.botanic.co.il.