There are many different endangered tree species. Industry, animals, bug infestation, tree disease, and non-native invasive species of plants are some of the reasons trees become endangered. Trees are important because they provide food and shelter for animals. They also metabolize carbon dioxide into oxygen.
The Bois dentelle is a very rare endangered tree. It has large, lacy, white flowers, and is native to the cloud forest on the island Mauritius. As of 2010, there were only two left in the wild. One has been transplanted to a government nursery in an attempt to grow offspring. The bois dentelle has largely been wiped out by non-native species that have overrun the area.
Clanwilliam cedar trees are found in the Cederburg mountains in South Africa. They are large, majestic trees, reaching a maximum height of approximately 18 meters (59 feet). Beautiful and rot-resistant, the timber was used often in the 1800s for furniture and building. Harvesting, climate changes, and several large fires have contributed to the decline of this species.
The loulu is a type of palm tree native to several Hawaiian islands. As of 2010, there were less than 300 of these trees. Reasons for endangerment are animals eating the seeds and crowding out by invasive species.
Nubian dragon trees were once very abundant in Northern Africa and Saudi Arabia. They grow on mountains, and the fruit is eaten by villagers to supplement their diet and possibly treat illness. The species is threatened by disease. It is one of the few tree species that can survive long periods of drought.
The quercus hintonii tree is an endangered tree native to Mexico. This tree grows up to 15 meters (about 49 feet). It is a deciduous tree and is recognized by its bright red foliage in the Spring. This endangered tree is being destroyed for agriculture, including coffee plantations and grazing space for cattle. The wood is also popular for crafts.
On St. Helena, an island in the Atlantic Ocean, the gumwood has been declared the national tree. This endangered tree grows to be 8 meters (about 29 feet) in height and sports a large canopy of leaves. Large white flowers bloom in the winter and spring. Reasons for endangerment include bug infestation, invasive species, and human use.
The Wollemi pine was once thought to be extinct, but a few were found in 1994. It is a conifer tree but has small leaves, rather than needles. Mature trees are up to 40 meters (about 131 feet) tall. The bark is said to resemble bubbling chocolate, which makes it unique. Tourists are the biggest threat to the safety of the Wollemi pine, since they can bring dangers such as infection and fire.