The Sydney Morning Herald’s Botanical Sensation: John McMahon’s Plant Catalog

July 17, 1850

On this day, dear gardening enthusiasts, a most tantalizing advertisement graced the pages of The Sydney Morning Herald.

It was penned by none other than John McMahon, a gardener, and plantsman of considerable repute whose horticultural prowess on the Camden Park estate set the colony abuzz with excitement. Sir William Macarthur referred to him as "My own trusty right hand."

Imagine, if you will, the thrill that must have coursed through the veins of every garden-loving soul in Sydney upon reading McMahon's proclamation. This botanical virtuoso had compiled a catalog of nearly 2000 species of plants!

One can scarcely fathom the diversity of flora contained within those pages - a veritable treasure trove for the discerning gardener.

But McMahon's genius did not stop at mere cataloging.

No, dear readers, he went a step further to ensure that his green-thumbed clientele could partake in this horticultural bounty, regardless of the distances involved.

As he so eloquently put it:

Plants securely packed for long journeys, glazed plant cabins prepared, and filled with rare plants for transmission to Europe.

Can you envision it?

Delicate specimens of Australia's unique flora, carefully nestled in their glazed cabins, embarking on a grand voyage across vast oceans to grace the conservatories and gardens of Europe!

One must marvel at the ingenuity required to ensure these botanical treasures survive such an arduous journey.

Picture the meticulous care taken in selecting each plant, the precision in packing to withstand the rolling of the seas, the anticipation of European horticulturists eagerly awaiting these exotic arrivals.

McMahon's enterprise speaks volumes about the burgeoning horticultural trade of our time.

It is a testament to the insatiable curiosity of botanists and gardeners alike, ever eager to cultivate new and rare specimens from the farthest corners of the globe.

For those of us fortunate enough to reside in the colony, McMahon's catalog surely represents an unparalleled opportunity to enhance our own gardens with a dazzling array of species.

One can only imagine the vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and unique forms that await discovery within its pages.

As we reflect on this advertisement, let us take a moment to appreciate the dedication of plantsmen like John McMahon.

Their tireless efforts to collect, catalog, and distribute the world's flora have enriched our gardens and expanded our horticultural horizons immeasurably.

So, my fellow gardeners, shall we not raise our trowels in salute to John McMahon and his 2000 species?

And perhaps, if you're feeling particularly adventurous, you might consider acquiring one of those glazed plant cabins for your own horticultural expeditions.

After all, one never knows when one might need to transport a rare orchid across the continent!

Until our next botanical adventure, may your gardens flourish and your plant catalogs overflow with possibilities!