J. R. R. Tolkien Archives

A Verdant Legacy: 400 Years of the Oxford Botanic Garden

A view of the University of Oxford Botanic Garden from outside the walled garden. Magdalen Tower of Magdalen College is visible in the background

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. July 25, 1621 On this day, at the stroke of two in the afternoon, a most extraordinary event transpired in the hallowed grounds of Oxford University. The Botanic Garden, known also as the…

Celebrating J. R. R. Tolkien and The Flora of Middle Earth

“The father-and-son author team of Walter Judd and Graham Judd point out that when Tolkien created Middle-Earth, he was incredibly detailed about plant life…” January 3, 1892 On this day, the English writer and philologist J. R. R. Tolkien was born. Gardeners will enjoy a book by Walter S. Judd and Graham A. Judd,…

January 3, 2020 Bulbophyllum phalaenopsis, How to Grow Amaryllis, Heinrich Reichenbach, Augustus Van Wickle, Mary Strong Clemens, Constance Spry, Deep Space Nine, Joan Walsh Anglund, Indoor Kitchen Gardening by Elizabeth Millard, Duck Cottage Weathervane, and the Flora of Middle-Earth

Today we celebrate the one of the 19th century’s top orchidologist and the birthday of a man who used his wealth to purchase an American garden treasure. We’ll learn about one of the most prolific female plant collectors and the florist who shocked London with her floral displays. Today’s Unearthed Words feature a beloved American…

From Muck to Marvel: 400 Years of the Oxford Botanic Garden

The Danby Gate to the Botanic Garden built in 1633

This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast: Click here to see the complete show notes for this episode. July 25, 2023 On this day, precisely four centuries and two years ago, at the stroke of two in the afternoon on a Sunday, a most extraordinary garden took root in the heart…