Israelis rich in natural diversity (biodiversity) thanks to its location at the junction of three continents (Asia, Africa and Europe) and on the seam between the world's Mediterranean and desert biomes.

Strengthening Mediterranean biodiversity: The Gardens are hosting and collaborating with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and other higher education institutes on the most complex biodiversity research project of its kind in the world. Funded by the Israeli government's chief scientist, the project aims to understand and isolate the factors most influential in strengthening Mediterranean native plant diversity. The conclusions will help shape environmental policy in Israel and other Mediterranean lands.

Protecting endangered species:  The Gardens' Head Scientist co-writes the Israeli Red Book on endangered plant speciesin Israel.  His team is expanding a long-running JBG project to identify, collect and cultivate threatened species from Israel and beyond. Some of these species are returned to the wild to strengthen dwindling populations. Those with ornamental value are often promoted to growers and public institutions such as city parks departments. For more details on our Adopt an Endangered Plant campaign, click here.

The endangered Sternbergia Clusiana