The Welsh National Herbarium

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Welsh National Herbarium is the most important collection of herbarium specimens in Wales, and the third most important in the United Kingdom. Originating over a century ago, its expansion during the 20th century reflects the growth in awareness of the significance of plant sciences in Wales. Located in Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales, the Herbarium contains over three-quarters of a million specimens of vascular plants, bryophytes, algae and fungi, with particular strengths in the Welsh flora, and in Hieracium, Taraxacum, Rubus, Sorbus, bryophytes (including the British Bryological Society herbarium), lichens, and biocultural items. There are also substantial collections of botanical illustrations, stamps, photographs, rare books, wax models, and exsiccatae. Staff are involved in active research, and educational and outreach programmes.