Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Nature

Factual: Science & Nature: Nature & Environment

Natural history programme offering a unique insight into the natural world

Natural history programme offering a unique insight into the natural world and the rich variety of creatures inhabiting it

BBC Radio 4 FM

Nature: Series 4

Nature: Series 4: Episode 1: Britain's Rarest Trees

Britain's Rarest Trees

Episode 1

Episode 1: Britain's Rarest Trees

Series 4

BBC Radio 4 - Nature, Series 4, Britain's Rarest Trees

Brett Westwood joins botanist Tim Rich to look for the whitebeam trees.

Brett Westwood joins botanist Tim Rich from the National Museum of Wales to look for the whitebeam trees, which are found nowhere else in the world.

If you thought that all the world's rarest trees were only in virgin rainforest or on remote tropical islands, then prepare to be surprised. Brett Westwood joins botanist Tim Rich from the National Museum of Wales to look for the whitebeam trees, which are found nowhere else in the world. Ley's whitebeam near Merthyr Tydfil has only 17 specimens growing in the wild, and new species are still being described from the Avon Gorge in Bristol. Thanks to analysis of their DNA we know more than ever about these trees and their conservation presents some fascinating challenges.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Nature

Series 4

Episode 1: Britain's Rarest Trees

Genres

Brand

Series

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4