Systems are being developed for the propagation of rare native plant species listed on the USVI Dept. of Natural Resources Endangered Species list. In vitro seed germination is being used for germplasm preservation, recovery and propagation of native species of orchids.

The three remaining species on the island of St. Croix are the Sandy Point Orchid (Psychilis macconnelliae), Christmas Orchid (Epidendrum ciliare), and Cockleshell (Encyclia cochleata). The Sandy Point Orchid has been successfully grown from seed in tissue culture and released back into its environment.