Exhibit shows how arboretum gets its plants

If you've ever wondered where the Morton Arboretum's plants came from, the museum's newest exhibit, "Plant Hunters," offers a look at plant exploration and collecting.

Housed at the Sterling Morton Library, the new exhibit not only highlights the research that takes place at the Morton Arboretum, but brings awareness to the work of other notable plant researchers throughout history.

The exhibit features many artifacts, including rare photographs of turn-of-the-century China taken by renowned plant collector Ernest Henry Wilson, who introduced many Asian plant species to Europe and the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visitors can explore modern plant hunting by getting a close look at instruments used in the field and during scientific study. The exhibit's interactive elements challenge visitors to identify plant species while they learn about the state of threatened trees and plants, as well as the conservation efforts of scientists at the Morton Arboretum.

"'Plant Hunters' is a great way to learn more about the arboretum's mission," said Mary Samerdyke, manager of interpretation. "For example, visitors can learn about our seed-collecting expeditions in China and then head outside to see first-hand the plants we have from that part of the world."

Geared to both children and adults, the exhibit is open during library hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. It is free with arboretum admission.