had widely differing degrees of success. Grazing by sheep has probably reduced the population from being widespread and numerous to what it is now, confined to steep slopes, cracks in rocks, and restricted to the mountainous northern end of the island. The trees are not well known to the islanders and two fine specimens were even cut down in the 1980s by a professional gardener working at a site near Brodick Castle. The Ranger's Service have taken steps to increase the distribution of the trees, planting both species in the park. However, a great deal more could be done to make visitors and islanders aware of these unique species possessed by Arran. Catacol whitebeam - a new species In 2007 it was announced that two specimens of the newly named Catacol whitebeam (Sorbus pseudomeinichii) had been discovered by researchers on Arran. The tree is again a cross between the native rowan and whitebeam, the discovery being made following work by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Dougarie Estate and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Research into the genetics of whitebeam trees had shown that the population was much more diverse than previously thought and that the Arran whitebeams seem to be gradually evolving towards a new type of tree which will in all likelihood look very similar to a rowan. A team from the Royal Botanic Gardens collected seeds and cuttings to ensure the long-term survival of the trees and steps were taken to protect the two known specimens. As of 2016, only one of the two specimens could be found. See also Eglinton Country Park Arran whitebeams on the mainland. References External links Arran whitebeams at Ardrossan Academy Sorbus Endemic flora of Scotland Isle of Arran Speciation