435 years Hortus botanicus Leiden and the history of the tulip in the Netherlands

On May 2, KNNV Publishers will publish the book Van hortus & tulp, a richly illustrated publication about 435 years of Hortus botanicus Leiden and the role of the tulip in Dutch plant culture. Written by the Hortus itself, the book offers a combination of historical depth, botanical knowledge and visual inspiration.

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Netherlands

The Hortus botanicus Leiden is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands and played a key role in introducing and building Europe's tulip collections. The book details this history, as well as the broader development of the garden as a scientific and educational site.

Two story lines: the garden and the tulip
The publication combines two historical lines: the development of the Leiden Hortus since its founding in 1590, and the spread and significance of the tulip in the Netherlands. Bulb specialist Arie Dwarswaard delved into the origins of well-known tulip stories and separates fact from fiction. Richly illustrated with photographs by Cunie Sleijpen, the publication is both browsing book and reference work, with a timeline, register and table of contents.

For professionals and enthusiasts
The book is relevant to florists, growers, garden designers, historians and other professionals working with flowers, plants or (garden) cultural history. It offers insight into the roots of the Dutch flower bulb industry and the lasting influence of botanical gardens on plant knowledge and collection formation.

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