I was extremely skeptical since this variety cannot often be found. I went ahead and ordered, optimistically. I was beyond PLEASED! So pleased, I didn't take any photos, I was so anxious to get it planted. The plant arrived well packed, in a heavy cardboard tube, capped at both ends. Inside, the tree roots were packed with enough moist dirt to survive during transport. On top, and below, the tree, packing materials prevented the tree from sliding from one end of the tube to the next end. After opening, the roots looked great and the bark scratch test revealed a healthy green below. I immediately planted this tree and will update with growth progress.