About
The Oxford University Herbaria houses one of the world's most important botanical collections with over 750,000 preserved plant specimens. Dating from the 17th century to today, the collections include specimens collected by Charles Darwin, David Livingstone, and other pioneering naturalists. The herbaria serves as a vital research resource for plant taxonomy, biodiversity, and conservation science.
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⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
Highlights
Darwin Collection
Plant specimens collected by Charles Darwin during the Beagle voyage and later expeditions
Livingstone African Collection
Botanical specimens from David Livingstone's African explorations
Historic Type Specimens
Over 20,000 type specimens used to define plant species
Collections
Over 750,000 preserved plant specimens from worldwide locations, with particular strengths in British flora, Mediterranean plants, and tropical collections. Includes historic herbaria from renowned botanists and ongoing contemporary collecting programs.
Explore the diverse collections housed in this museum.
Themes
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.
Nearby Museums (5 within 6 miles)
Museum of the History of Science, University of Oxford
Science & Technology
Oxford — ~6 min walk (0.3 mi)