18th-century botany Archives

Archibald Menzies’ Santa Barbara Sojourn: A Botanical Milestone

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. November 18, 1793 On this day, Archibald Menzies (MEN-zeez), the Scottish surgeon-botanist, reluctantly departed Santa Barbara aboard the HMS Discovery during Vancouver’s expedition. Menzies had spent several productive days exploring the Santa Barbara…

Antoine de Jussieu: The Botanical Bard of Lyon

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. July 6, 1686 On this day, dear horticultural enthusiasts, we celebrate the birth of a true titan of botany, the incomparable Antoine de Jussieu. Born in the fragrant city of Lyon, young Antoine…

Pehr Kalm’s Niagara Adventure: A Botanical Discovery Day

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. August 13, 1750 On this day, my most cherished garden companions, the esteemed botanist Pehr Kalm graced the magnificent Niagara Falls with his discerning presence. One can almost hear the thunderous cascade serving…

The Baker Botanist: Remembering John Wilson of Longsleddale

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. July 15, 1751 On this day, we mark the passing of that most remarkable botanical genius, John Wilson of Longsleddale—a man who dared to make the lofty kingdom of plants accessible to common…