In a remarkable botanical achievement, scientists have successfully cultivated a tree from a seed that is approximately 1,000 years old, unearthed from the caves of the Judean Desert.
The ancient seed was discovered during archaeological excavations in the late 1980s, but it wasn't until 2010 that Dr. Sarah Sallon, founder of the Louis L. Borick Natural Medicine Research Center in Jerusalem, initiated a study to plant it and explore its potential.
To the researchers' amazement, five weeks after planting, a tiny shoot emerged from the seed, revealing its staggering age. Now, the tree stands nearly 3 meters tall, although it has yet to flower or produce fruit.
Using DNA sequencing, the researchers identified the tree as part of the Commiphora genus, though its exact species remains unknown and likely extinct. The team believes it may be linked to a healing plant mentioned in the Bible, showcasing the potential medicinal properties of this newly cultivated tree.
The collaborative research team, which included experts from the United States, Switzerland, France, and Australia, utilized various techniques such as radiocarbon dating and phytochemical analysis. Their findings, published in the journal Communications Biology, highlight the intersection of archaeology and modern botany in reviving historical flora.
This project not only illuminates ancient plant species but also opens pathways for future studies aimed at rediscovering long-lost species with potential medicinal value.