The Society was founded in 1933 by a group of tree enthusiasts with a vision of this city being improved as a ‘dear green place’ by planting trees and shrubs wherever possible. It was the driving force behind plantings along roadsides, in derelict areas, within parks and gardens and the grounds of churches, schools and…

Until July, we have received seeds and plants of about 760 species (including hybrids and cultivars) from botanical gardens, nurseries, and individuals. Many of the seeds came through the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) seed exchange program from other botanical gardens across Europe. Seed germination is not always successful, but we have obtained seedlings of…

All those visiting the Gardens entering by the Main Gate are greeted by the magnificent site of the summer bedding with the backdrop of the Kibble Palace. Such a site is well known for those of us living in the West End as it has been there since the late 19th century. As I show…

Great credit goes to Heather Buchan, one of our gardeners, for her observational and photographic skills as well as horticultural knowledge and skills in spotting this plant. Lathraea clandestina or purple toothwort is a rare plant. This specimen was spotted by Heather in an area of the Gardens that is inaccessible to the public and…

The Chelsea Flower Show is a breathtaking extravagance of floral splendour and horticultural excellence. For the last 4 years GBG has taken part in Orchid Conservation Chelsea, a collaboration between international botanical and horticultural institutions including RBG Kew, Chicago BG and Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden in Hong Kong. The aim is to raise awareness…

The soapbark tree is native to Chile. It was first described by a Jesuit priest, Juan Ignacio Molina in 1770’s. It is an evergreen tree in the family Quillajaceae. It likes a warm temperate climate and can grow 15-20m in height. The species is drought resistant. It has a thick dark coloured bark, oval, shiny,…

Quietly working away behind the scenes, supporting the Garden employees in their work are a team of CPH students and graduates who volunteer their time doing many jobs around the gardens. Thank you to them and their tutors for the commitment and support to our wonderful Glasgow Botanic Gardens.