Monthly Archives: August 2017

The Unusual Grand Tour of Sir J.E. Smith

Although, in my previous existence, I had been involved in reissuing the hagiographic two-volume ‘life and letters’ of Sir J.E. Smith (1759–1828), founding president of the Linnean Society, written by his delightfully named widow, Pleasance, I did not actually read … Continue reading

Posted in Biography, Botany, France, Gardens, History, Italy, Natural history, Printing and Publishing | Tagged , , , , , | 7 Comments

Plant of the Month: August 2017

Quasi-familial motives led the Hedgehog ménage to Thessaloniki recently, and a jolly time was had by all, in spite of 40 degrees C, 98% humidity, and the overwhelming nature of Greek hospitality. We had time for a little light sightseeing; … Continue reading

Posted in Botany, History, Natural history | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments