Conifers make up 30-35% of our world’s forests; however, despite originating in the late Palaeozoic period and surviving major mass extinctions, they often dominate recovery ecosystems, yet 34% of the species are under threat today.

Recognising that there is no accessible, simple field guide in Scotland (or indeed the UK) to help readers recognise and appreciate conifers’ diversity, origins, and cultural significance. The Conifers are not just for Christmas project aims to change this.

Jennie Martin will collaborate with Scottish Forestry, the International Conifer Conservation Programme at Royal Botanical Gardens Edinburgh, and botanist John Poland to develop the guide. Afterwards, additional research will be collected through workshops, during which participants can use the guide and provide feedback.

With an accessible field guide full of colour photographs and accompanying workshops, the researchers hope this project will kick-start a more conifer-literate society amongst forest school leaders, ecological surveyors, wilderness guides, and nature lovers alike.