The garden highlights the vital work of Plant Heritage in protecting cultivated plants for the future and aims to inspire the next generation of National Plant Collection Holders. It shines a light on both the ‘living libraries’ already safeguarded within National Plant Collections and those plants still in need of a collector to step forward.

The woodland-style garden imagines ‘the missing collector’ — a mysterious plant enthusiast who has left behind an extraordinary botanical legacy. Vignettes of jewel-toned plants, set within lush green foliage, offer visitors rare glimpses into this treasured collection. More than 10 National Collection Holders will contribute their plants and expertise, with plant collections featured including Geum, Boehmeria, Polypodium and Thalictrum, while the garden will also champion plants that currently lack a National Collection, such as Aquilegia and Verbascum, encouraging future custodians to take up the role. 

As well as being rich in planting, the garden features bespoke sandstone installations that echo the knowledge of plant collectors and the passion for learning that inspires so many gardeners. Stone pillars depict stacks of books, while museum-style stone drawers are filled with plants. An unoccupied chair invites visitors to imagine themselves in the role of collector and poses the question: “Could you be The Missing Collector?”