2026 marks the 120th anniversary of the death of James Lye, a pioneering horticulturist whose dedication to fuchsias has left a lasting legacy in British horticulture. Known for his meticulous cultivation and the creation of numerous named fuchsia varieties, Lye’s work continues to inspire gardeners, breeders and horticultural historians alike.
During his career, James Lye is believed to have:
- Developed over 100 distinct fuchsia cultivars, many of which are still grown today along with some Pelargoniums and Potatoes
- Named fuchsias after prominent figures and families, including the Duke and Duchess of Fife, Duke and Duchess of Albany and Walter and Lady Doreen Long, Mr and Mrs Hooper Taylor
- Issued descriptive lists, which have now become elusive
We are planning a series of initiatives to celebrate his life and contributions. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on his influence, uncover lost insights and share his story with a wider audience.
Our Goals for the Anniversary
1. Connecting with Descendants
We hope to trace and connect with any living descendants of James Lye. Contact with family members could provide personal stories, photographs, letters, or documents that enrich our understanding of his life and work.
2. Partnering with Museums and Organisations
We are collaborating with institutions such as Market Lavington Museum and other heritage and horticultural organisations. These partnerships will help locate historical materials, share knowledge and organise events celebrating Lye’s legacy.
3. Tracking Down Lost Records
One of our key objectives is to find one of James Lye’s elusive descriptive lists, which documented the fuchsia varieties he cultivated and was selling. These records would provide invaluable insight into his methods, plant selections and the heritage of his named cultivars.
4. Community Contributions
We are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have information or connections, including:
- Individuals who live or lived in one of Lye’s former residences
- Those connected to his employer (The Hon. Mrs. Louisa Hay (Nee: Pleydell-Bouverie)) or her family
- Anyone linked to fuchsias he named, such as the Duke and Duchess of Fife, Duke and Duchess of Albany and Walter, or Lady Doreen Long.
Even small pieces of information, photographs, or documents could help us piece together a fuller picture of Lye’s life and work.
How to Get Involved
If you have information, memories, or materials that might help, please submit details via our contact form.
We are deeply grateful to anyone willing to contribute to this important project. Together, we can celebrate James Lye’s legacy, preserve his remarkable contributions to horticulture and perhaps rediscover some of his lost records for future generations.