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Launch news
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The imposing metal cages guarding Wollemi Pines in botanic gardens nationally were removed to symbolise the April 1 retail launch of the Wollemi Pine in Australia.

The launch celebrations included uncaging events at the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens, the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, and the Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens.

A grove of Wollemi Pines were planted at Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane and Mount Annan Botanic Gardens in Camden (Sydney) opened the “Wollemi Walk of Discovery”, a new attraction boasting of a grove of 90 advanced Wollemi Pines.

In Melbourne, the Wollemi Pine was showcased at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show from April 5-9. A grove of advanced Wollemi Pines were featured in a landscape garden designed by Jim Fogarty's Blue Design company. At a nearby stand, Blue Design created a display that featured a variety of ways that the Wollemi Pines can be used in home and garden settings.

Over 170 retailers have been selected to retail the coveted Australian native conifer which can be purchased in a range of sizes with prices from approx. $60 for a 40cm plant (150mm pot) and $100 for a 60cm plant (200mm pot).

Royalties from all sales will fund the conservation of the Wollemi Pine in the wild and other rare and threatened species.

Demand for the Wollemi Pine has already been strong with over 20,000 advance orders since November, making it one of the most exciting new plant introductions for home gardeners.

It is not only attractive and easy to grow, it is highly versatility as either a feature tree, container specimen or indoor pot plant. We see the Wollemi Pine becoming a must have item and popular gift for many Australians in 2006.

All Wollemi Pines will come with their own authentication certificate, label and care booklet.  If purchased at a retail stockist, they will also be presented in a designer sleeve which, like their biodegradable pot and other packaging, is eco-friendly.