Explore Chinese Plans "In the Footsteps of Augstine Henry" with Irish Expert and Author Seamus Obrien

“In the Footsteps of Augustine Henry,” presentation and book signing by Seamus O’Brien, curator, Kilmacurragh Arboretum – National Botanic Gardens in Ireland

Journey to far off lands “In the Footsteps of Augustine Henry” with plant hunter and author Seamus O’Brien, curator of the Kilmacurragh Arboretum – National Botanic Gardens in Ireland. O’Brien is Ireland’s leading expert on plants in the temperate regions of China. In his book, “In the Footsteps of Augustine Henry,” O’Brien chronicles the life and travels of the famed Irish plantsman Henry, who O’Brien has emulated through his own extensive expeditions in the pursuit of plants.

Augustine Henry (1857 – 1930) was a renowned plant hunter who played a critical role in the research and discovery of Chinese flora. His pioneering efforts and accounts of the destruction of Chinese forests prompted many future plant hunters to follow in his footsteps and explore the country’s natural vegetation.

Seamus O’Brien’s book, “In the Footsteps of Augustine Henry,” tells the life story of the historic plant explorer. O’Brien also documents the expeditions abroad by a team of botanists and horticulturists (including himself) in the 1990s, essentially recreating Henry’s travels and following in his path.

Plant hunter O’Brien is has travelled to China, New Zealand, Australia, Nepal, Chile and other countries, all in the pursuit of plants. He is the curator and manger of Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens, an 18th century country estate belonging to the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin. He is a regular contributor to Irish Garden magazine and other publications, and has won several awards in recognition of his expertise.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is located at 4344 Shaw Blvd. in south St. Louis, accessible from Interstate 44 at the Vandeventer exit and from Interstate 64 at the Kingshighway North & South exit. Free parking is available on-site and two blocks west at the corner of Shaw and Vandeventer.

Members get more! More than 37,000 households in the St. Louis region hold memberships to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Memberships begin at $65 ($60 for seniors) and offer 12 months of free admission for two adults and all children, plus exclusive invitations and discounts. Members help support the Garden’s operations and world-changing work in plant science and conservation. Learn more at www.mobot.org/membership.

*Description by the Missouri Botanical Garden.