For National Science Week, scientists at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria will host a free talk about the legacy of the first Gardens director, founder of the National Herbarium of Victoria, and first Government Botanist of Victoria, Baron Ferdinand von Mueller. During the talk, scientists will share their favourite Herbarium specimens from Mueller’s time and discuss their contemporary significance. The talk also celebrates 200 years since Mueller’s birth.

“Baron Ferdinand von Mueller was a botanist, explorer, and patron of science, who founded our collection of plant, algal and fungal specimens through his own collecting, and through a network of collectors and scientists that he established globally,” said Alison Vaughan, Manager Collections at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.

Approximately two-thirds of the 1.5 million plant, algae and fungi specimens in the National Herbarium of Victoria today were amassed through Mueller’s endeavours.

Free entry, bookings essential.

Mueller Hall, enter via Oak Lawn Gate.

To book to attend in-person or to register to watch online, go to: https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/specimens-across-time/