Dr. Rachel Vannette and lab members are studying microscopic organisms in the nectar of California fuchsia (Epilobium canum). They want to know if the microscopic composition of the nectar varies throughout the flowers’ age and whether it changes as a result of being exposed to pollinators. The nylon bags you see on the corner of Mrak Hall Drive and Arboretum Drive are used to prevent pollinator contact. Every other day they collect covered and uncovered blossoms and take them back to the lab for analysis.

The Arboretum’s documented plant collections are used by researchers in a variety of fields. Learn more about current and recent research utilizing our outdoor, living museum as a laboratory.