Botany research is focused on the flora of the Great Plains. Botany also collects specimens from other areas of North America and the world.

The herbarium is open to both scientific researchers and members of the public. First-time visitors are required to undergo brief instruction in handling herbarium materials but thereafter may have access to the facilities during regular business hours. Herbarium tours are provided to interested individuals or groups with advanced notice.

Researchers can browse the collections electronically [link to search page] and visit in person. Botany also participates in loan programs and exchanges with qualifying institutions.

As a public service, Botany identifies plants from specimens and photographs. Dried or fresh specimens may be sent to us at our mailing address; images may be sent via email to cmorse@ku.edu. Some details are helpful in determining the identity of a plant, so please provide as much information about specimens as possible, including where, when, and by whom the specimen was collected; the habitat from which the specimen came, the habit of the specimen (e. g., tree, shrub, perennial herb, annual herb), flower color, etc.