Saplings grown from 300-year-old camellias

Horticulturists have succeeded in growing saplings from centuries-old camellia trees from a Buddhist temple in Kyoto.

Several rare types of camellias grow in the compound of Reikan-ji Temple. A variety called "Nikko-tsubaki" dates back more than 300 years and is believed to have been the preferred tree of Emperor Go-Mizuno-o in the 17th Century.

Priests at the temple have been concerned that the trees are old and appear to be weakening.

Last year, plant experts took cuttings from 3 varieties of camellia in an attempt to propagate new plants.

The saplings have grown from 5 centimeters to more than 20 centimeters tall, faster than usual thanks to growth promoting chemicals.

The saplings will be planted in the temple compound in about 5 years after they have grown taller.