Forscher, Sammler, Pflanzenjäger: Uncover the Daring Journeys of Plant Hunters at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna

This exhibition delves into the fascinating world of plant hunters, exploring how iconic plants like tulips, hydrangeas, and tea became part of our gardens and daily lives. It highlights the daring journeys and personal sacrifices made by collectors to procure these botanical treasures.

The exhibition "Forscher, Sammler, Pflanzenjäger" (Researchers, Collectors, Plant Hunters) at the Botanical Garden of the University of Vienna traces the historical quest for botanical specimens. Running from June 12 to October 31, 2019, it focuses on the individuals who ventured to remote corners of the earth, often risking their health and lives, to collect plants. Their stories reveal thrilling adventures, ethically questionable methods, and tragic fates, driven by motives of power, profit, and scientific curiosity. The exhibition is inspired by Alexander von Humboldt, whose 250th birthday is being celebrated, and who himself collected numerous plants on his travels. Across 15 thematic panels along the main avenue, the exhibition examines the different eras and the motivations behind the "hunt" for plants. It showcases how monarchs sought exotic flora for prestige, colonial powers vied for profitable monopolies on crops like tea and nutmeg, and orchid hunters pursued rare species, alongside researchers driven by the pursuit of knowledge. The exhibition also dedicates a special panel to exceptional women who carved out a place for themselves in the male-dominated field of plant collecting. Additional displays scattered throughout the garden highlight individual plant hunters, their personal maps illustrating their travel routes and collection areas, focusing on both internationally significant figures and collectors from the German-speaking region.

An exhibition brochure (80 pages, € 7) and an orientation map are available at the garden gate. A guided tour with Garden Director Michael Kiehn is offered on June 12, 2019, from 16:30-18:00, with a fee of € 5 per person.