Plant Teaching Collection
PLANT TEACHING COLLECTION
ABOUT
The Plant Teaching Collection is comprised of over 200 plant species from diverse genera, including aquatic, desert, tropical, local, and agricultural. Designed to support the academic needs of Virginia Tech’s Biological Sciences undergraduate courses, it provides access to high-quality specimens for educational, research, and outreach opportunities. The collection fosters hands-on exploration of plant diversity, ecology, and taxonomy, and is also open to the public for tours and educational outreach.
VIEW THE COLLECTION VIRTUALLY
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We love sharing the Plant Teaching Collection with visitors of all kinds, including university classes, student clubs, community groups, and more. Classes and larger groups should contact Bri Wills (bmwills@vt.edu) to arrange a visit.
The Plant Teaching Collection is located in the University Greenhouse Complex on Washington Street, in sections 10B and F5, next to the Hahn Horticulture Garden. Drop in visitors are welcome during operating hours (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM) if the facilities are unlocked. Note: Parking passes are required by Virginia Tech. Visit the Virginia Tech Parking Services website for more information.
Location of the Plant Teaching Collection
We loan out plants! Faculty who would like to borrow plants for classes or research can visit in person or browse the collection online and email the Greenhouse Manager, Bri Wills (bmwills@vt.edu), at least two weeks in advance with any requests. Most plants are available year-round, though spring availability may be limited due to the plant taxonomy labs.
Plants can typically be delivered directly to your classroom and may be kept up to one week.