Specimen Preparation and Care
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We add thousands of new plant specimens to the Herbarium collection every year.
In addition to specimens collected on RBGE expeditions, we receive gifts and exchanges from other herbaria, and specimens from the RBGE research plant collections.
Our herbarium technicians mount the dried, pressed plant specimens ready for databasing and ‘laying away’ in the herbarium cabinets.
They also pack fruits and seeds for the carpological collection and specimens for storage in alcohol in the spirit collection.
The specimens in the Herbarium collection are a unique and irreplaceable scientific, cultural and historical resource and require ongoing care and conservation, including protection against insect pests.
Please click on the images below for further information.
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Key facts
- There are over 3 million plant specimens in the RBGE Herbarium
- The oldest specimens date back to the 17th century
- New plant specimens are continually being added to the collection
- The plant specimens are vital for research into biodiversity, genetics, endangered species, medicinal plants and climate change
- Good specimen preparation and care are essential for the longterm preservation of the collection
