The necessity to redesign and relandscape the interior of the Temperate Palmhouse at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) created the opportunity to undertake a full curatorial survey of the palms and other plants contained in the Palmhouse. This paper gives the background to, and describes the process of, undertaking the survey. It stresses the need for maximum consultation with all interested parties to decide the fate of existing plants and make recommendations for new plantings. The result was a booklet describing the history and development of the Palmhouse, listings of all existing plants with notes on ethnobotanical use, value in teaching or research and final destination and suggestions for new species to meet the new design along with educational and interpretation opportunities. The resultant survey could act as a model for other projects.
Living Collection Curation- A Holistic Approach, With The RBGE Palm House As A Case Study

MORE RESOURCES:
Public Garden Magazine – Volume 40, Issue 2
TRIBUTE: BRIAN VOGT FOCAL POINTS PUBLIC GARDENS: HIDDEN HEROES OF CLIMATE CHANGE RESEARCH CHARTING THE FUTURE: FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY’S NORTH...
READ MORE
Volunteer Positions with Guest Services Webinar
Presented by the Volunteer Engagement Community How can you best utilize volunteers in front line opportunities? Are they at an...
READ MORE
Plan Your Work to Work Your Plan: A Tailored Approach to Your Garden’s Campaign
Presented by the Development & Membership Community Join Carmen Boy and Bruce Harkey for an insightful webinar designed to empower...
READ MORE
BHS May 2025 – Reducing Workplace Stress
Prioritizing mental health and implementing strategies to reduce stress are necessary for a safe and productive workplace. Workplace stress and...
READ MORE