武汉植物园 - Wuhan Botanical Garden

Upon arrival at the Wuhan Botanical Garden, CAS, on Thursday morning, I was met by Prof. XIE Kaije, the Assistant Majordomo of the Horticulture Center, and Ms. PAN Shan, Planning Manager. I think we, together, proved to be the perfect match for one another, since their proficiency in English and mine in Chinese complemented each others strengths quite well. We toured the incredible gardens, collections, and facilities of the botanical garden during most of the morning, and though the conversation was partly in Chinese and partly in English, I don't think a single point went misunderstood.

Left to Right: Prof. Xie, Me, and Ms. Pan

As you will see from the slide show below, the gardens and collections were truly incredible. The new conservatory (behind the fountains in the picture above) was designed by the Dep. Director of the Horticulture Center, Dr. LIU Hong-tao, who, unfortunately, was unable to join us since he was away on business. In addition, there were delightful fountains, a huge new lotus garden under construction, and an intriguing submerged aquatic-plant garden. This garden was built with the planting basins above grade with walls of plexi-glass, surrounded by a viewing platform, constructed to showcase the diversity of wonders in the plant world that rarely ever meet the gaze of the human eye. While touring the gardens, another heavy rain storm came upon us, which did not have even the slightest effect on our willingness to continue. Following the tour, we talked about the exchange program I am proposing and how it might benefit Wuhan BG. Both Prof. Xie, and Ms. Pan are excited to report their conversation to their superiors and believe that the Wuhan Botanical Garden would be quite interested in participating in the program should it come to fruition.



Following the tour and discussion, we all went to lunch at a nearby restaurant. This restaurant is owned by a single family who grow much of the produce used in the dishes in garden plots located on-sight. I have to say, that it was without a doubt some of the best food I have had so far on this trip.

The charming family restaurant on the left with a beautiful view of a lake - the garden plots are on the right . . .