Retired couple’s prehistoric ‘money tree’ produces first-ever seeds worth over $6K
A rare tree thought to have existed since the age of dinosaurs has surprised a retired British couple by producing seeds for the first time—seeds that could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Pamela and Alistair Thompson, both 75, planted a Wollemi pine sapling in their garden in Wichenford, Worcestershire, back in 2010. Purchased for just $94 from a friend who got it through a TV shopping channel, the young tree has now matured into a 13-foot tall giant—and it’s finally bearing fruit.
The Wollemi pine, often called a “dinosaur tree,” dates back more than 90 million years and was believed extinct until a small grove was discovered in 1994 in a remote canyon 125 miles west of Sydney, Australia. Since then, saplings and cuttings have been distributed around the world as part of conservation efforts.
This April, Pamela noticed the first signs of fruiting on their now fully grown tree. By this week, five large cones had opened to reveal hundreds of seeds—each potentially worth up to $13. The couple estimates that each cone has produced around 100 seeds, with more cones still developing.
“It really does prove that money can grow on trees!” joked Alistair, a retired spinal surgeon.
Pamela, a former police officer, was thrilled by the discovery. “It was very exciting actually collecting the seeds from such an ancient tree that lived when dinosaurs roamed,” she said. “This year’s dry weather seems to have caused the cones to release their seeds a little earlier than usual.”
She hopes the seeds will help preserve the endangered species and plans to try germinating some herself. The couple also aims to sell the seeds in small, affordable bundles—raising funds for charity in the process.
“I saw a small Wollemi tree on sale for over $1,300,” Pamela said. “We’d like to sell the seeds in packs of five or six for about $7—around $1 per seed—to make them accessible while supporting good causes.”
While not all seeds may be viable, the couple is optimistic about the potential. “Only time will tell how many will grow into trees,” Pamela added.
The Thompsons, who have three grandchildren, are opening their garden to the public this Sunday (August 24) as part of the National Garden Scheme, giving visitors a rare chance to see the prehistoric tree in person.
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