New U.S. Botanic Garden Exhibit Spotlights “Fierce Flora”

Washington - A new exhibit at the United States Botanic Garden showcases the ferocious side of the bright and beautiful plant world! "Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise" opens to the public Sept. 27, 2024, in the Conservatory East Gallery.

Most plants are relatively harmless, but beware some of the unique survival features plants have evolved to defend themselves against herbivores, infection, and plant competitors! Learn how plants have engaged in a millennia-long evolutionary struggle with their animal and plant competitors, and how some people can experience negative consequences from touching, consuming, or, in rare cases, sitting beneath them. However, some chemicals that cause harm can also be used for human good: more than half of pharmaceutical drugs are originally derived from plants!

Visitors are invited to test their reflexes to see if they can move faster than several carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps and bladderworts, then sit on a fabric prickly pear or thistle while learning about these spiky plants, or even take a (safe!) selfie with poison ivy.

"Plants have evolved incredible defenses and other adaptations for survival," said Dr. Susan K. Pell, executive director of U.S. Botanic Garden. "Some of these adaptations greatly benefit other organisms on Earth and some cause great harm. We are excited for visitors to explore the fun and fascinating stories of the dangerous side of plants."

A gift store run by the Friends of the U.S. Botanic Garden and local D.C. small business Rewild will operate in the Conservatory's West Gallery, offering botanically-themed gifts for purchase.

The USBG is free of charge and open daily from 10 am - 5 pm with expanded hours for outdoor gardens, closed Dec. 25. Programs connected to the exhibit's themes will be offered throughout its run. Find upcoming programs and plan your visit at www.USBG.gov.

###

Online folder of exhibit photos and b-roll video clips for media use

Media contact: Devin Dotson, 202-306-6743

About United States Botanic Garden

The United States Botanic Garden (USBG) is the oldest continuously operating public garden in the United States, established by Congress in 1820. The U.S. Botanic Garden inspires people to appreciate, study, and conserve plants to enrich society locally and globally. With over a million visitors annually, the USBG strives to demonstrate and promote sustainable practices. It is a living plant museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and Botanic Gardens Conservation International. www.USBG.gov