The national tree of Bhutan, Cupressus cashmeriana, known as Tsenden, is of immense cultural and religious significance to the people of Bhutan for the construction of holy buildings (Dzongs) and monasteries. The demand for this tree has put wild populations at risk of overexploitation. The mayor of Dangchu Valley requested technical assistance to restore hillsides where trees have been felled. Training was provided by RBG Edinburgh, nurseries established and a restoration programme was initiated. The people of the Dangchu valley, where the largest population of Tsenden occurs, have formed a community nursery with the key aim of cultivating, conserving and planting Tsenden for future generations.
Botanic Gardens Conservation International’s work aims to promote and develop a more efficient, cost effective and rational approach to plant conservation in botanic gardens. We will do this by leading and advocating, leading innovative and strategic projects, building plant conservation capacity, and providing funding.
BGCI is an independent organisation registered in the United Kingdom as a charity (Charity Reg. No. 1098834) and a company limited by guarantee (No. 4673175).