In recent years it has become increasingly difficult to obtain Meconopsis seed which had been legally collected in the Himalayan regions.  Consequently, it is vital that all species currently in cultivation are conserved for future generations to admire.  In the past it has been the case that some species (e.g. Meconopsis latifolia) were lost to cultivation, as the growers were unaware that the total population in cultivation was critically low.

It is hoped that members of The Meconopsis Group will want to play an active role in conservation, by growing one or more threatened species and by participating in regular censuses so that species which are becoming vulnerable are identified long before they get close to being lost.

Some species have disappeared from cultivation as a result of hybridisation, as was the case with the short-lived re-introduction of Meconopsis betonicifolia in Alaska. It is hoped to post advice on avoiding hybridisation in the near future.

In addition to members maintaining pure colonies of a particular species, or form of a species, with the aim of producing sufficient seed to ensure their long-term future, the group is recruiting public gardens to host populations so that these beautiful but rare species are seen and enjoyed by more people.

All members are invited to contribute to this initiative, so please contact Alan on species@themeconopsisgroup.org for further information or advice.