In May, experts and enthusiasts from around the world will gather at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for the 2008 International Rhododendron Conference, celebrating the silver jubilee of the Scottish Rhododendron Society.
The conference from 7 to 11 May, hosted in association with the Scottish Rhododendron Society, includes an impressive line-up of 27 international speakers and ten tours to exceptional gardens, as well as evening receptions and a conference banquet. Two events, namely an art exhibition and the Scottish National Rhododendron Show, will be open to the public - a great chance to find out a little more about the immense variety of species to be found within the rhododendron family."
Subtitled 50 Years of Modern Day Exploration, Conservation and Hybridising, the conference will predominantly cover events and developments since World War II. Lectures will be delivered on a number of issues including contemporary exploration, hybridising and breeding, cultivation and propagation, historical aspects, science and taxonomy and conservation. Lecturers will include RBGE's own Dr George Argent, who will explain the Garden's work with Vireya rhododendrons over the last half-century, while in-situ conservation work in China will be explained by Lijiang Project Manager David Paterson.
As part of the conference, Scotland's National Rhododendron Show, a competitive event, takes place in the Exhibition Hall on 8 and 9 May and will be open to the public (admission charges apply). The Rhododendron 2008 Art Exhibition includes contemporary work in various media by established botanical artists in Scotland and beyond. The exhibition runs in the Caledonian Hall from 8 to 11 May; it's free and open to all.
- For a full conference programme and registration, go to www.scottishrhodos.co.uk
- More about Scotland's National Rhododendron Show, 8 and 9 May, open to all
- More about Rhododendron 2008 Art Exhibition, 8 to 11 May, open to all