A botanical specimen collected by Charles Darwin and preserved at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is one of the rare objects examined by Fiona Bruce on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow this week. The sample dates back to the 1830s.
Filmed in Summer 2021, the episode is the second of three programmes to be shot in the garden. The final episode featuring RBGE is expected to be shown later in the year in summer.
The gentian Gentianella magellanica specimen was collected by Darwin, the father of evolutionary theory, as he voyaged around South America on the HMS Beagle. One of 80 Darwin specimens now conserved as part of the research institute’s Herbarium collection of 3million preserved plants and fungi, it is a valuable source of data for RBGE and scientists around the world.
Read more: How to visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Dr Peter Wilkie, senior researcher in tropical diversity said: “This particular specimen is historically significant because it was collected by Charles Darwin, but it continues to be a valuable research resource for scientists, as relevant today as it was two hundred years ago. By studying and comparing data from historical and more modern specimens, we use these collections to better understand the incredible diversity of plants on our planet and help identify, those species which are at risk of extinction from human activity and climate change. In this way these collections, old and new, are helping address the current biodiversity crisis and climate emergency.”
The episode also features a stunning set of traditional Highland dress that was once worn by a Highland chieftain, a rare Rolex Sea-Dweller watch and a selection of medals that include a 1924 Olympic participant’s medal. Fiona Bruce, presenter of the Antiques Roadshow said: “We had such a brilliant time at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh that we were able to produce three separate programmes, each one brimming with Scottish treasures, quirky curiosities and moving stories – all filmed against a stunning backdrop.”
The show was broadcast on BBC1 at 7pm on Sunday 3 April. It will be available to watch on BBC Player.
