CU Boulder adopts rare dinosaur-era tree

Flashback: Scientists theorized that herbivorous dinosaurs dined on Wollemi pines, which are found in the fossil record dating as far back as 91 million years.

• They were thought to have gone extinct, but in 1994, a parks ranger in Australia found a Wollemi in a remote canyon about five hours west of Sydney.
• Scientists discovered about 100 such trees in that canyon, whose location remains a closely guarded secret.

Behind the scenes: In an effort to help grow more, 10-inch Wollemi pines were put up for sale in National Geographic's holiday catalog in 2006 for the low, low one-time payment of $99.95.

• CU grad Judy McKeever bought one for her husband's bonsai collection, but Wally "never got 'bonsaied' or really trimmed at all, and just kind of grew out of control," she told CU.
• McKeever donated Wally to CU when he became too big for their home.

What they're saying: "For the university to have a Wollemi pine is a really special privilege," CU greenhouse manager Malinda Barberio said in a statement.

• "It allows students to have an example of conservation efforts that are modern and recent in history and shows them that they have the opportunity to participate in these efforts as well."

What we're watching: Wollemi pines can grow up to 130 feet in the wild, but Wally as a cultivated plant likely won't get quite that big.

• Wally is capable of producing reproducing: "We would love to have Wally produce cones in the future, and of course we would try to plant and grow them," Barberio said.
• In the meantime, visitors can schedule a time to visit Wally at his greenhouse on 30th Street.