Herbarium Services

SPECIMEN LOANS

Specimen loans can be approved for anyone doing scientific research at a recognized institution. These loans are for a period of one year and are renewable. Destructive sampling of small portions of material for genetic studies, SEM work, etc. will generally be allowed, although prior permission must be granted. Contact the collection manager for more information.

TOURS

Tours of the herbarium are given to classes, community groups, societies, and other educational institutions at no charge. These tours focus on how plant specimens are obtained and processed, how an herbarium collection operates, and the importance and uses of herbarium specimens and the information they provide. As space is limited in the herbarium, a group of 10 or fewer is suggested. Please contact the herbarium directly for more information about tours.

PLANT IDENTIFICATIONS

Plants may be brought to the herbarium for identification. Specimens should be relatively fresh, have flowers or fruit if possible, and must be sealed in a plastic bag.

This service is performed as time allows and should not be used in cases involving poison emergencies. If you have a poison emergency call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222. If someone is unconscious or has trouble breathing, call 911.

COLLECTION PRESS LOANS

The herbarium has plant press kits (a wooden press, two straps, 20 ventilators, and 20 blotters) that can be checked out by students and other University of Memphis affiliates at no charge; for others, a deposit of $50 is requested. The length of the loan will be determined at the time of pick-up, as availability is subject to demand. If needed, instructions on proper plant collection, preservation, and data collection can be provided.