Europe’s Oldest Woody Plant Discovered

A tiny juniper shrub in Finnish Lapland has been recognized as Europe’s oldest woody plant, measuring just four inches in trunk diameter and estimated to be 1,647 years old, Earth.com reported. This discovery, led by Marco Carrer from the University of Padua, surpasses previous records by over four centuries.

While many envision ancient trees as towering giants, this juniper highlights the resilience of shrubs, which can thrive in harsh climates. Researchers, including Dr. Angela Luisa Prendin, emphasize the importance of studying wood rings from such plants to understand historical climate changes.

As temperatures rise, scientists warn that established shrubs may face pressure from expanding tree populations. Conservationists stress the need to protect these ancient shrubs, which hold centuries of ecological history. This remarkable discovery not only redefines our understanding of longevity in woody plants but also underscores the importance of preserving these small yet significant survivors in changing environments. The findings are published in the journal Ecology.