A wild species new to Shenzhen was recently discovered on a coastal hill in Dapeng New District during a biodiversity survey conducted by the Dapeng Administration of the Shenzhen Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau.

The species, Gmelina hainanensis, is on level 2 of the State protection list.

A Gmelina hainanensis branch. File photo

In June 2024, during a plant survey by the South China Botanical Garden team in the coastal Dapeng Peninsula, the researchers noticed the canopy of a tree extending beyond surrounding bushes, with the plant reaching its young fruit stage.

By closely examining the shape of the leaves, calyxes, and corollas and conducting further investigation, the team confirmed the plant as Gmelina hainanensis.

The survey team also studied its natural habitat, noting that it grows in crevices among rocks between coastal hills, and confirmed that it is indeed a wild species.

Gmelina hainanensis leaves.

Gmelina hainanensis is a spiny shrub that mainly grows in South China. It can reach heights up to 15 meters and produces clusters of yellow flowers. Its bark is dark brown and rough, while the leaves are smooth. The yellow, bell-shaped flowers feature a prominent lower “lip,” and the fruit is small and pear-shaped.

The discovery of Gmelina hainanensis further demonstrates the favorable environmental conditions of Dapeng, whose diverse ecosystem offers ideal habitats for rare and valuable species.

Gmelina hainanensis' developing fruit.

As of February 2025, Dapeng New District has recorded 2,110 species, including 120 wild animals and plants listed on the national protection list, and has discovered two new species as well as 10 species new to Shenzhen.