The revival of ancient seeds connects us to history and evolution. Every germinated seed can tell us stories about survival, adaptation, and persistence. There have been several seeds that were considered viable after staying dormant for hundreds if not thousands of years. These seeds increase the likelihood of the next generations surviving if the conditions are not suitable for seedling. Let’s dive into the details of the world’s most ancient seeds that have come back to life after many years.
1. Judean Date Palm

In the mid-1900s, archaeologists discovered date palm seeds stored in an ancient jar in King Herod’s Palace, Masada, Israel. The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies stated that the Radiocarbon dating conducted at the University of Zurich confirmed the seeds were from 155 BC to 64 AD. This means the dry conditions preserved these seeds for 2,000 years. Subsequently, these seeds were stored for 40 years at Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan.
In 2005, Dr. Sarah Sallon, driven by curiosity, challenged her friend and colleague, Dr. Elaine Solowey, to try germinating these ancient seeds. They first soaked the seeds in enzymatic water and fertilizer, then planted them in sterile potting soil. Their efforts paid off three weeks later, resulting in the oldest successfully germinated tree sprouting. They affectionately named the tree “Methuselah,” inspired by the oldest person in the Bible.

2. Lotus or Nelumbo nucifera

In 1996, UCLA research biologist Shen-Miller’s team traveled to the village of Xipaozi in Pulandian, China, to find ancient lotus seeds. They discovered 20 seeds of the Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) from a dry lake bed. Scared Lotus has been cultivated in Asia for thousands of years. However, the particular seeds they discovered were 1300 years old. Surprisingly, all four tested seeds germinated. However, they showed abnormalities in leaves, stalks, and stems. Researchers suspect low-dose radiation from the soil caused these defects, similar to those in irradiated plants.
4000-year-old lentil

Scientists have successfully sprouted a 4,000-year-old lentil seed found in a Turkish excavation. Professor Nejat Bilgen and his team unearthed the seeds back in 2008 in Kutahya province. They determined that the seed container dates back to the Middle Bronze Age. Although most seeds were burnt, one successfully germinated after extensive efforts.
The excavation team believed that they discovered a silo with many containers. Nukhet Bingol planted the successful seed in 2009, and it sprouted. Bingol noted the ancient seed appears weaker than modern varieties. Researchers analyzed the plant to compare it with today’s genetically engineered and organic plants.
32000-Year-Old Silene stenophylla

A Russian team discovered Silene stenophylla seeds buried by an Ice Age squirrel near the Kolyma River. Radiocarbon dating confirmed the seeds are 32,000 years old. Found 124 feet below permafrost, the seeds were surrounded by mammoth, bison, and rhinoceros bones. Some mature seeds were damaged, but immature seeds retained viable material.
The team extracted tissue from the frozen seeds and successfully germinated plants. These plants, though identical, had different flower shapes from modern varieties. They grew, flowered, and produced seeds after a year. Botanist Peter Raven praised the study but suggested repeating the experiment for validation.
Conclusion
Ancient seeds, from the Judean date palm to Silene stenophylla, and their successful germination is simply unbelievable testimony to life’s resilience. These finds not only help us bridge our gap with the deep past but also give unique insights into survival and adaptation. As researchers continue to explore these ancient wonders, they unlock new chapters in our understanding of biology and evolution.
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