A verdant jewel and National Historic Landmark in the heart of New York City, the New York Botanical Garden is cherished by residents and visitors alike. Here, the institution’s remarkable history and unparalleled collections are presented in one magnificent volume—the only comprehensive history of any of the world’s botanical gardens—sure to inspire plant lovers, home gardeners, would-be horticulturists and scientists, and armchair naturalists alike.

Through hundreds of beautiful photographs commissioned especially for this book and reproductions of rare botanical art, readers can tour the Botanical Garden’s 250 historic acres and admire the more than one million living plants in its care. The book’s engaging text describes the origins and purpose of a botanical garden, and provides a fascinating look at the Garden’s groundbreaking scientific discoveries since its founding in 1891.

Gregory Long has been president and CEO of the New York Botanical Garden since 1989.

Anne Skillion is senior editor in the publications office of the New York Public Library. The book’s essayists are members of the Botanical Garden’s staff.