Having evolved since the late 1600s, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Edinburgh was formally established in the 1870s and has occupied its current location ever since. Free to the public (except for access to its Glass Houses (greenhouse exhibits), the gardens stretch across a hilltop in north Edinburgh, offering broad views of the historic city.
Its 70 acres, accessed by a fine network of paved, graveled and grassy paths, are adorned with plants from across the globe and from every major ecosystem on our planet. Almost equally diverse are the visitors, arriving from many countries to enjoy the history and public amenities of this attractive city. We were fortunate to explore the gardens on a mild, sunny day (seemingly rare in Scotland) and were pleased to learn about the cooperative research that the RBGE conducts with more than 40 other countries across the globe. In this era of climate change and ongoing habitat destruction, that commitment is especially important.
If I were to offer one suggestion (as I am inclined to do), I would label the plants with their common names, secondarily identifying them with their scientific Genus and species; at this Gardens, scientific labeling was primarily utilized. Since most visitors have had no formal training in botany, they would likely be more appreciative of the fabulous diversity of plants if their common names were known. After all, public support for the complex work of conservation organizations is vital and it is best if visitors are not overwhelmed by the scientific terminology. Just my opinion.
Its 70 acres, accessed by a fine network of paved, graveled and grassy paths, are adorned with plants from across the globe and from every major ecosystem on our planet. Almost equally diverse are the visitors, arriving from many countries to enjoy the history and public amenities of this attractive city. We were fortunate to explore the gardens on a mild, sunny day (seemingly rare in Scotland) and were pleased to learn about the cooperative research that the RBGE conducts with more than 40 other countries across the globe. In this era of climate change and ongoing habitat destruction, that commitment is especially important.
If I were to offer one suggestion (as I am inclined to do), I would label the plants with their common names, secondarily identifying them with their scientific Genus and species; at this Gardens, scientific labeling was primarily utilized. Since most visitors have had no formal training in botany, they would likely be more appreciative of the fabulous diversity of plants if their common names were known. After all, public support for the complex work of conservation organizations is vital and it is best if visitors are not overwhelmed by the scientific terminology. Just my opinion.
