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Event Name: |
Speaker Series | People & Plants: Derek Haynes |
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Event Date(s): |
Wednesday, 2/25/2026, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, 1 hour
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Ages Allowed: |
16 - 99 |
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Tickets Available: |
100 |
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Purchase Deadline:
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Wednesday, 2/25/2026 7:00 PM
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Vanilla So Black | Derek Haynes
People & Plants, A Community Lecture Series
Vanilla is so Black. How Black is it? Far blacker than the bleached concept we’re often spoon-fed. Vanilla is anything but basic. This orchid is bursting with flavor as rich and complex as its history.
This lecture invites participants to rethink vanilla as a botanical, cultural, and historical powerhouse. Explore vanilla’s origins, the pivotal role of Edmond Albius in its cultivation, and the deep connections between Black communities and this globally cherished spice. The talk also highlights vanilla’s cultural significance in Mexican and African traditions and its enduring culinary legacy.
In celebration of Black History Month and Women’s History Month, join New England Botanic Garden for an annual series of FREE online webinars. People & Plants: A Community Lecture Series features thought leaders advancing plant knowledge, fostering community, challenging injustice, and championing the preservation of vital ecosystems.
Hosted by New England Botanic Garden’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Committee.
Event Information
- Ticket Price: FREE
- Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- Time: 7–8 PM
- Location: Online via Zoom. Registered participants will receive the webinar link approximately 24 hours prior to the talk.
About the SPEAKER – Derek Haynes
Derek Haynes, known on Instagram as the Chocolate Botanist, is a botanist and science communicator who lectures on horticultural topics including the story of vanilla. His work explores vanilla’s botanical origins, the historical relationship between Black communities and vanilla cultivation, and the legacy of Edmond Albius—whose innovation transformed one of the world’s most valuable spices. Elevated: Orchid Exhibition
Love orchids? Step into Elevated: Orchid Exhibition—a vivid celebration of orchids paired with breathtaking aerial sculptures by artist Cicely Carew. Experience 2,500+ orchids in bloom throughout New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, February 7–March 22.
Learn more at nebg.org/orchids.
How to Register
- Navigate to the program listing on our website.
- Scroll to the bottom and click “Add Attendees.”
- Select each attendee and choose the appropriate price tier.
- Click “Add to Cart” and proceed to checkout.
- Review our cancellation policy here.