As part of the project “Conservation of Endemic, Rare, and Threatened Plant Species on Mt Orjen – Phase 2,” implemented by EnvPro in partnership with the University of Primorska, the Natural History Museum Rijeka, along with experts and volunteers - and with the support of the Municipality of Herceg Novi and the Environmental Protection Agency of Montenegro - the translocation of Salvia brachyodon (large-flowered sage) was successfully carried out at a suitable location in Montenegro.

The project was implemented during 2024–2025 with the support of the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), through a program aimed at strengthening the role of civil society in the conservation of plant species with limited distribution.

Salvia brachyodon is a narrowly distributed endemic species of the eastern Adriatic, found at only a few locations, with fragmented habitats and small populations. As such, it is classified as an endangered species (EN) according to IUCN criteria. Its habitats are additionally threatened by vegetation succession, abandonment of traditional land use, and wildfires.

During the project, the following activities were carried out:

• Field research and data collection on populations of the species on Mount Orjen
• Seed collection and propagation under controlled conditions (including collaboration with universities in Slovenia and Montenegro)
• Capacity building of young researchers in seed germination and plant conservation techniques
• Development and implementation of protocols for seed collection, storage, cultivation, planting, and monitoring of translocation success

The final phase of the project included the planting of 30 individuals of Salvia brachyodon in the field (May and October 2025), marking the first active translocation and establishment of a population in Montenegro. Field monitoring confirmed successful establishment, with all 23 individuals planted in October surviving, creating a strong foundation for further conservation activities and long-term monitoring.

This project builds on previous conservation efforts focused on Iris orjenii and other rare plant species in the region, applying an integrated approach that combines research, conservation, and alignment with public policies.

As part of the project, collaboration was established with relevant institutions, including the IUCN, for the assessment of six species and the updating of Red List data, coordinated by the EnvPro team.