In 2012, an assessment of ex situ (download PDF here) plant conservation programs identified the most vulnerable and urgently important species for protection. More than half of Hawai‘i’s native plants – or 724 species – rose to the top of the plant conservation community’s priorities. These plants are important for a variety of reasons, including extinction vulnerability, habitat restoration, and cultural significance. Collectively called “Species of Conservation Importance” (SCI), these plants have been the focus of early coordinated ex situ conservation efforts. Since 2012, more taxa have been added to the target list.