The Gila Native Plant Society will meet at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 17, in Room 219 of Harlan Hall on the Western New Mexico University campus.

Lisa Mandelkern will give a presentation on The Botanical Garden in Tübingen.

Lisa has been fascinated by the flora of New Mexico for a long time. In 1991 she became a member of the Native Plant Society of New Mexico.

Since then, she has become an enthusiastic amateur botanist and plant photographer. Lisa has served as the president of the Las Cruces Chapter of the Native Plant Society of New Mexico and as president of the state organization.

When in Germany to visit relatives, Lisa always makes sure to stop at the Botanical Garden in Tübingen. This garden traces back to Leonhart Fuchs, who lived from 1501 to 1566. Fuchs is most remembered for his innovative great herbal titled "Notable Commentaries on The History of Plants." We will discuss the great doctor/botanist in some detail. Then we examine the role that botanical gardens play in the development of botanical knowledge and in plant conservation.

The Botanical Garden in Tübingen is also a place for enlightenment, appreciation and relaxation. The place is a flower photographer's paradise! The second half of the talk will feature some 50 flowering plants arranged by plant family. Many of the featured plants are native to Europe, and some interesting, unusual or rare plants hail from faraway places all over the globe.

The public is invited to attend free of charge. Refreshments will be served after the programs.

The Gila Native Plant Society is committed to promote education, research and appreciation of the native flora of the Southwest, to encourage the preservation of rare and endangered plant species and to support the use of suitable native plants in landscaping. For information on programs, publications and membership, please visit www.gilanps.org.