University News Last updated 07 October
A brand-new 21st-century Physic Garden is taking root at Birmingham Botanical Gardens as part of an ongoing collaboration with Birmingham City University (BCU).
The garden blends history and heritage with modern horticulture and design, inspired by 17th-century Physic Gardens, where medicinal plants were grown and used to make remedies.
The result of a year-long design project, the garden has brought together students and staff from Architecture, Jewellery, Fashion and Textiles, working alongside the Gardens’ horticulture and engagement teams.
“This collaboration gives our students a unique opportunity to engage with plants as both a historical resource and a tool for creative practice,” said Caroline Raybould, Senior Lecturer in Fashion Business and Promotion.
“The dye bed, in particular, will allow students to explore natural colour production and sustainable textile processes first hand.”
Last year, BCU staff and students took part in a Design Challenge at the Gardens, imagining what a 21st-century Physic Garden could look like.
Their ideas took inspiration from the architecture of the Gardens’ Grade-II listed Teulon Cottage, while adding a contemporary twist.
The design was then brought to life by Birmingham-based independent designer makers, Dual Works.
Staff and students have continued to get involved, recently volunteering their time to help install the garden and plant the first medicinal, herbal and dye plants.
“The Physic Garden will be a wonderful addition to Birmingham Botanical Gardens, connecting visitors with the fascinating history behind how plants have been used for healing, nourishment and creativity throughout centuries,” said Head Gardener Bethan Collerton.
“Working alongside Birmingham City University has brought an abundance of insight and fresh ideas to the project, and we’re excited to see the garden develop into a space that is both educational and inspiring.”
In a traditional Physic Garden, plants were grouped according to their uses, with physicians and apothecaries turning them into remedies and medicines to treat all kinds of ailments.
Plants are still used in some modern medicines today, primarily to treat pain and infectious diseases, so the Physic Garden is as relevant as ever.
Jen Ridding, Head of Engagement and Learning at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, said: “This project was the perfect opportunity to work with BCU colleagues and students, and commission makers who were local, independent, and collaborative in their approach.
“The green spaces of the Gardens are an inspirational creative space in the region which provide unique, interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities for the staff and students at Birmingham City University.
“We can’t wait to bring the amazing new Physic Garden to life with planting and people!”
The project is part of a wider partnership between BCU and Birmingham Botanical Gardens, with the two institutions working together on events, research and sustainability projects that benefit the wider city.
Find out more about the Physic Garden on the Birmingham Botanical Gardens website.
Image: Staff and student volunteers at the new Physic Garden. Credit: BCU