Federal wildlife officials have begun a review of whether a rare San Francisco plant discovered in the Presidio last year should be listed as an endangered species.
The Franciscan manzanita was thought to be extinct in the wild since 1947, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
However, last October a specimen was discovered during the clearing of vegetation to make way for the replacement of Doyle Drive south of the Golden Gate Bridge.
A botanist driving in the area made the unusual find, spotting the plant near the 19th Avenue exit, according to the Wildlife Service.
The plant has since been moved to a new location, and cuttings and seeds have been taken from it, the Wildlife Service said.
On Monday, wildlife officials announced they will begin a full review for possible listing of the Franciscan manzanita under the federal Endangered Species Act.
A 60-day public comment period, during which the Wildlife Service is soliciting information about the plant’s biology, genetics, habitat needs, history and current range and populations, ends Oct. 12.
