Ever wondered what it’s like to work in a herbarium? Probably not, unless you’re someone with a deep niche interest in botany. But did you know that our island has its very own herbarium located within the Botanic Gardens? Well, now you do. Either way, it doesn’t matter if you’ve got green fingers or can barely keep a cactus alive – all are welcome to watch the digitisation of over 800,000 plant specimens at the Singapore Herbarium, in this first-ever showcase in the world.
Typically a process that’s done away from the public eye, the digitisation of the Singapore Herbarium will involve unpacking of plant specimens from their boxes, barcoding, transcribing of any notes about the plants, and photography on a conveyor belt before being returned to storage. The digital information will then be readily made available to researchers around the world, and aid in the conservation of plant life. This initiative coincides with the herbarium’s 150th anniversary.
Aside from watching the experts arms deep in their craft, you’ll also get to experience Pressed in Pixels: Digitalising the Singapore Herbarium – an exhibition that lets you learn more about what exactly goes on in the herbarium, and hands-on elements suitable for all ages. Little budding botanists can have fun with plant puzzles, gaze into a seed-filled kaleidoscope, and examine specimens up close using a magnifying lens just like the pros.
The Singapore Herbarium viewing gallery is open on weekdays only (excluding public holidays), from 9am to 5pm, from now till the end of August 2026. Entry is free. Find out more here.
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