The Korea National Arboretum (KNA) of the Korea Forest Service recently confirmed a new natural habitat of Pseudolysimachion sieboldianum (Miq.) Holub on Myeongdo and Byeongpungdo in Jindo county, Jeollanam-do.

Previously known as a species endemic to Japan, Pseudolysimachion sieboldianum (Miq.) Holub was first recorded as a naturally occurring plant in Myeongdo of Jindo county, Korea in 2017. During the recent field survey, the KNA confirmed additional populations on both Myeongdo and Byeongpungdo.

Approximately 20 individuals were found within an area of about 5m² on Myeongdo, and around 30 individuals within 20m² on Byeongpungdo. These plants grow naturally in crevices of coastal cliffs, suggesting that there may be additional undiscovered habitats in nearby areas.

The survey was conducted in cooperation with the Yeongam National Forest Management Office by using forest patrol vessels. This discovery implies that Pseudolysimachion sieboldianum (Miq.) Holub may also occur on other islands near Jindo and is expected to serve as baseline data for accessing rare plant species in Korea.

Adapted to dry coastal environments, Pseudolysimachion sieboldianum (Miq.) Holub exhibits high salt and drought tolerance, with thick, glossy leaves that provide excellent ornamental value. The species has significant potential for use in landscaping and is expected to be widely applied through breeding and propagation studies in the future.