Socotra Island

Why is it famous?

Its dragon's blood trees have a wide, flat, umbrella-shaped canopy unlike almost any other tree on Earth.

The island is so isolated that about a third of its plant species grow nowhere else in the world.

How did it form?

The tree's strange umbrella shape helps it survive the island's dry climate — its tightly packed branches capture fog and funnel rainwater straight down to its roots.

Socotra split off from the mainland millions of years ago, letting its plants and animals evolve in complete isolation.

Amazing facts

The tree gets its name from the deep red sap that oozes out when its bark is cut — early traders called it "dragon's blood."

Some dragon's blood trees are believed to be hundreds, or even over a thousand, years old.

Quick facts

• The tree gets its name from the deep red sap that oozes out when its bark is cut — early traders called it "dragon's blood."
• Some dragon's blood trees are believed to be hundreds, or even over a thousand, years old.
• A fully grown tree can spread its branches as wide as it is tall.
• The red sap has been used for centuries as a dye and in traditional medicines.