The largest rare native plant conservation collection in the world, the CPC National Collection consists of living specimens and seed representing the greatest possible genetic diversity found in natural populations. It serves as a backstop against extinction and an important source of material for research and recovery programs.

The CPC estimates that about 4,200 U.S. plant species - about a fifth of the country's total flora - are of conservation concern. Nearly 2,000 of these may be faced with extinction within the next few decades. Many of these rare plants have potential value for agriculture, forestry, horticulture, or pharmaceutical research.

The CPC's pioneering program serves as a model for other conservation programs around the world. To find out more, go to their website at http://www.mobot.org/CPC/.