What is a type specimen?
When a researcher names a new species (or other taxon) of algae,…
Typical: Hibiscadelphus stellatus
This type specimen is like a postcard from Hawaii reading "Wish you…
For the duration: The safekeeping of American herbaria…
The bombing of the military complex at Pearl Harbor, on December 7,…
Aquatic Hitchhikers
Although all plants need some water to grow, aquatic plants have adapted…
Firewood and pathogens
As plants travel the world with people, these plants can bring along…
Modern Art
Herbarium specimens play an important part in plant science research. But the specimens themselves can…
Art Cronquist's Hat
If you spend time looking at herbarium specimens collected by Arthur Cronquist,…
Label Appreciation: Favorites
Labels are as important to a herbarium specimen as the plant, alga, or…
The Lemmons: Partners in Botany
Sara Plummer met John Gill Lemmon in 1876 when he came to…