I’m joined by author Sarah Bilston to explore the strange allure of orchids and the daring—and often destructive—pursuits of the plant hunters who sought them. We delve into the economic and ecological entanglements of botany, the lasting impacts of orchid mania on countries like Brazil, and what we risk losing when we oversimplify the tangled roots of horticultural history.

Links

The Lost Orchid: A Story of Victorian Plunder and Obsession by Sarah Bilston

Other episodes if you liked this one:

🌱 1. Episode 154: Modern Plant Hunters with Dr. Sandy Primrose

In this episode, Dr. Sandy Primrose discusses the legacy of Victorian-era plant hunters and how their adventurous—and often exploitative—quests for botanical treasures continue to influence modern horticulture. The conversation touches on the ethical complexities of plant collection and the enduring allure of rare species.

🔗 Listen here

🌿 Episode 54: Growing Orchids in Your Garden with Dr. Wilson Wall

In this episode, Dr. Wilson Wall, director of Bewdley Orchids and co-author of How to Grow Native Orchids in Gardens Large and Small, shares his expertise on cultivating native British orchids. He discusses the symbiotic relationship between orchids and fungi, suitable species for various garden settings, and the importance of conserving these plants as their wild populations decline. This conversation offers a practical perspective on orchid cultivation, complementing the historical and cultural exploration in the interview with Sarah Bilston.

🔗 Listen here

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