Collections

“The Garden’s collections represent one of the finest botanical research centers and richest assemblages of plants in the world. Their diversity makes possible so much of the Garden’s scientific research, plant conservation and education.”
– Dr. Wyse Jackson


GLOW_Pathway_to_Museum_Building_120814_INCR.jpgOpened in 1859, Henry Shaw’s Museum was home to many of the Garden’s early collections. It housed the Garden’s original library, herbarium and natural history specimens.  After being closed to the public for 35 years, this historic space is getting new life.

Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum provides a unique opportunity to showcase many of the Garden’s collections, some of which are rarely on display.


Living Collection

27,000+ living specimens across Garden grounds and greenhouses

Herbarium

One of the world’s richest plant science resources spanning more than 6.7 million plant specimens

Bioinformatics

Innovative technological approaches to the creation, integration, analysis, and understanding of biodiversity data

Insects

An ever-changing collection of butterflies, beetles, and other insects vital to our ecosystem

Seeds

A critical tool for the long-term preservation of genetic diversity among thousands of plant species in Missouri and around the world

Biocultural

A growing archive of objects illustrating how plants shape human cultures around the world

Library

More than 250,000 pieces comprising one of the most comprehensive libraries of botanical literature in the world

Archives

A vast collection of images and documents chronicling the nearly two centuries of Garden history

Artifacts

An expansive array of Victorian Era furniture and personal effects reflecting the life and lifestyle of Garden founder Henry Shaw