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Online Author Talk With the Smithsonian's Matthew Fleming

The Stories, Science and History of Trees

In this online conversation, Smithsonian horticulturalist Matthew Fleming will guide us through the secret world of trees as revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world, "The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees." Adults. Register to get a link. A recording will also be available for later viewing.

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Join us as Smithsonian horticulturalist Matthew Fleming guides us through the secret world of trees as revealed in the beautiful and absorbing guide to the giants of the plant world, "The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees."

Trees occur naturally throughout the world and have been a part of human history for almost as long as humans have existed. Used for shelter, tools, fuel and food, they also help supply the atmosphere with oxygen and form astonishingly diverse and beautiful ecosystems and landscapes. The intricate world of leafy woodlands and abundant rainforests is revealed in the Smithsonian's extensive visual guide, which explores their key scientific traits and their ecological importance, as well as their enduring significance in human history and culture. From ancient oaks and great redwoods to lush banyans and imposing kapoks, "The Tree Book" reveals the anatomy, behaviors and beauty of these incredible plants and habitats in detail. 

Combining natural history and a scientific overview with a wider look at the history, uses, symbolism and mythology of trees, let this talk be your guide to these fascinating organisms. 

Adults. Register to receive a link for viewing this online event.

About the Presenter: Matthew Fleming has been a horticulturist at the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Facility in Suitland, Maryland since 2010. In addition to serving as a supervisory horticulturist, he manages three greenhouses with nearly a thousand tropical specimens that are displayed throughout the many Smithsonian gardens and landscapes along the National Mall during the warmer months. He has given talks on a wide variety of plant-related topics at the Smithsonian, ranging from indoor pests to overwintering tropical plants. Prior to coming to the Smithsonian, Matt was a purchasing agent and garden center assistant manager for a full-service landscaping firm. He received his bachelor of science degree from Penn State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences where he studied horticulture and landscape contracting. 

This event is part of DBRL's Online Author Series, supported by David Lile honorarium funds. A recording will also be available for later viewing on the author series site.

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