916-year-old Juniper Tree Discovered In China

During a scientific study in Qinghai province in northwestern China, a 916-year-old Przewalski’s juniper was discovered (Juniperus przewalskii), reports Xinhua. A tree growing in Baishushan in the Qaidam River basin, Today it is the oldest known specimen of its species.

The study, conducted by scientists from the Bureau of Forestry and Grassland in Delingha City, Haixi Mongol-Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, focused on two key aspects: field inspections and laboratory analysis of samples. After studying 87 cores and tree cuttings, the researchers determined the age structure of the juniper population in Baishushan.

The results of the study showed that approximately 2.3% of the trees surveyed are at least 500 years old, 13.8% are from 300 to 499 years, and 83.9% are from 100 to 299 years. Before this discovery, the oldest recorded specimen of Przewalski’s juniper was 769 years old.

Bureau chief Sun Dengfu said the research developed a multi-dimensional tree growth forecasting model, providing data for research on native plants, climate and geological changes, and eco-cultural tourism in the Qaidam River basin.

Przewalski’s juniper, endemic to China, grows well on sunny slopes at altitudes of 2,600 to 4,000 meters in the northeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and exhibits strong drought tolerance.

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