In a remarkable tale of science, history, and persistence, a 1,000-year-old seed discovered during an archaeological dig in the desert north of Jerusalem has grown into a thriving 10-foot tree.
This ancient botanical revival has captivated scientists and historians alike, with some suggesting it could be an extinct species once used for medicinal purposes and even mentioned in the Bible.
The seed was unearthed 40 years ago during an excavation, found to be in pristine condition despite its millennia-long journey through time. The seed’s exterior revealed little about its identity, leaving experts puzzled.
Among those intrigued was Dr. Sarah Sallon, a physician and founder of the Louis L. Borick Natural Medicine Research Center at Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem. Without clear answers from visual examination, Dr. Sallon and her team decided to take a bold step: plant the ancient seed.
Using techniques proven successful in reviving 2,000-year-old date palm seeds, the team prepared the seed for germination. Study coauthor Dr. Elaine Solowey, an expert in sustainable agriculture at The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies, followed a meticulous process. The seed was soaked in a combination of water, liquid fertilizer, and hormones, then planted in sterile soil.
Amazingly, after just five weeks, the seed sprouted, defying the odds and environmental stressors of its long dormancy. The seedling’s operculum, a protective caplike feature, was shed as it grew, leaving material that the team used for radiocarbon dating. Analysis revealed the seed was likely between 993 and 1202 CE.
Fast forward 14 years, and the ancient seedling has matured into a 10-foot tree. Images of the tree’s bark and leaves were shared with botanists worldwide, sparking further intrigue. While the tree’s genetic profile pointed to the genus Commiphora —a group of plants found in the Arabian Peninsula and parts of Africa—no exact match was identified.
The team speculated that the tree might be a member of the extinct Judean Balsam species, known historically for producing highly sought-after aromatic resins. This plant, referenced in ancient texts, including the Bible, was once a cornerstone of trade and medicine in the region.
However, a closer chemical analysis of the tree’s leaves told a different story. While it lacked the aromatic compounds typically associated with Judean Balsam, researchers identified guggulsterols, phytochemicals found in the related Commiphora wightii. This species is known for its resin, which has shown cancer-fighting properties.
Dr. Sallon and her team shifted their focus to another ancient medicinal balm, referenced in the Bible as tsori. Unlike the fragrant Judean Balsam, tsori was valued for its medicinal qualities. The researchers now believe the tree may be connected to this elusive balm.
The final answer will likely come when the tree produces flowers or fruit. These developments, expected in the coming years, could confirm whether the tree is an extinct species and offer insights into how it might be preserved.
The successful germination of this ancient seed is a significant achievement, demonstrating the remarkable longevity of seeds under the right conditions. Dr. Louise Colville, a seed and stress biology expert at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, in London, praised the feat.
“What’s surprising in this story is it was just a single seed and to be able to have one chance for that to germinate is extremely lucky,” Dr. Colville told CNN.
“Working in a seed bank, seeing the potential for that extreme longevity gives us hope that banking and storing seeds that some at least will survive for very long periods of time,” he added.
The success of this project also reinforces the importance of seed conservation efforts. Around the world, seed banks aim to preserve plant biodiversity by safeguarding seeds for future generations. Stories like this one underscore the potential for ancient seeds to contribute to scientific discovery and ecological restoration.
The tree, now a symbol of resilience and history, offers more than just a glimpse into the past. It represents the enduring connection between humans and plants, a relationship that stretches back to biblical times and beyond.
For Dr. Sallon and her team, the journey is far from over. As they await the tree’s flowering, they continue to explore its potential uses and historical significance. If the tree is indeed linked to the biblical tsori, it could unlock new understandings of ancient medicine and ecology.
