Behind the Vines Arboretum
The Behind the Vines Foundation arboretum is a sanctuary for rare rainforest tree species, emphasizing conservation, education, and research. Notable among our collection are critically endangered species like the Ajo (Caryocar costaricense), with some of our specimens measuring 11-15 meters in diameter. One hollow Ajo tree even fits up to eight people inside. Our biological reserve also houses the Manú (Minquartia guianensis), known for its extremely durable wood, and the Zapatero, renowned for its red interior color, hardness and resistance. Our 130 acre arboretum offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with these remarkable old growth trees in the last coastal primary rainforest on Earth.
Old Growth Rainforest
An old-growth rainforest, also known as a primary rainforest, is a forest that has developed over long periods of time without significant disturbance from human activity. These forests are characterized by their complex structure, rich biodiversity, and the presence of mature trees that can be hundreds or even thousands of years old.
They have a multilayered canopy, with trees of various ages and sizes, including large, ancient trees. The forest floor is typically covered with a thick layer of organic matter, and the ecosystem supports a diverse array of plant and animal species.
Our Arboretum
Many of the species on the property are on the ICUN red list of critically endangered species. This intact forest is invaluable for scientific research and contains insights into natural ecological processes, climate history, and the evolution of species.
Our accredited 130 acre arboretum on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica is part of the last coastal primary rainforest on Earth. The property has over 6 km of hiking trails on which this unique forest can be observed.