Science
- Evolutionary ecology research
- Horticultural research
- Plant diversity research
- Plant pathology research
- Herbarium & resources
- Scientific publications
Horticultural ResearchOur horticultural research facilities are located at the Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan. The facilities include a tissue culture laboratory, seed drying and storage rooms, growth cabinets, climate controlled glasshouses and several shadehouses. Research undertaken in these facilities is centered on the conservation and horticulture of Australian plants, particularly threatened species and species with economic potential. The research includes work on cultivation requirements, reproductive strategies and seed biology, and is closely allied with the NSW Seedbank and the Centre for Plant Conservation. Horticultural research aids in the management of threatened species by providing information on factors affecting their growth, reproduction and dispersal. Such information is essential to effective conservation, whether in situ or ex situ. Our work on the Wollemi Pine, for example, has increased our understanding of the environmental factors affecting germination and growth in the wild, and has enabled the establishmenet of a substantial ex situ population. Similarly, work on the symbiotic germination of terrestrial orchid seed has led to the development of a useful method for propagating individuals for restoration programs. Horticultural research also provides valuable information on the propagation and cultivation Australian plants for the nursery and floriculture industries. The overall aim of this research is to bring a range of native plant species into cultivation and thus contribute to the conservation of biodiversity by increasing community appreciation of the Australian flora, and by reducing the occurrence of bush-harvesting. Current programs & projects
Our teamManager
Science staff
Honorary Research Associate
Research students
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