Jurassic tree lays Scottish roots

Mr Unwin said the tree was the "botanical discovery of the century"

A rare species of tree, thought to have been extinct for about 200 million years, has been introduced to Scotland.

The Wollemi pine was believed only to exist in fossil form until several were discovered in Australia 12 years ago.

One of the trees has now been planted at the Logan Botanic Garden in Galloway where the growing process is aided by warmer air from the Gulf stream.

Curator Barry Unwin said the find was being dubbed as "the botanical discovery of the century".

I've planted many plants since I've been here but nothing as rare as this one Barry Unwin Logan Botanic Garden

It is thought the pines, which are related to the monkey puzzle tree, populated the ancient supercontinent Gondwana when dinosaurs walked the Earth.

This is the first to be planted outdoors in Scotland.

"It's certainly set to make a comeback of all comebacks," Mr Unwin said. "I've planted many plants since I've been here but nothing as rare as this one.

"We have a lot of plants in the garden that no other gardens grow in the country, but none of them capture the imagination like this plant does."

The tree will soon be on sale to the general public, with prices starting at about £300.