Research and Heritage
At Harper & Debbage, horticultural work goes beyond growing and displaying plants, it is rooted in research, documentation, and preservation. This page provides an overview of the ongoing studies, historical investigations and educational projects that support our National Plant Collections® and the wider heritage of cultivated plants in the United Kingdom.
Understanding Our Collections
Every collection tells a story of discovery, hybridisation and dedication. Research focuses on tracing cultivar origins, verifying names and maintaining accurate records to ensure that historical plants remain part of today’s living landscape.
This includes:
- Studying the work of James Lye, the Victorian plantsman whose Fuchsia cultivars are preserved in our collection.
- Documenting the achievements of Robin Clitheroe of Norwich, a skilled hybridiser whose Fuchsia cultivars form part of our developing collection for National Plant Collection® submission in 2026.
- Maintaining Hyssopus, Oxalis and Sisyrinchium collections for ongoing study and conservation.
Learn more about these individuals and their work in our dedicated research pages.
Current Research Projects
| Focus Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Fuchsia Heritage Studies | Historical and botanical research into Victorian and modern hybridisers, with particular emphasis on James Lye and Robin Clitheroe. |
| Plant Identification & Provenance | Comparing cultivars using documented references, historical imagery, and living specimens to confirm authenticity. |
| Fuchsia Gall Mite Monitoring | Tracking gall mite presence and resistance in cultivars, sharing information with the The British Fuchsia Society. |
| Conservation & Documentation | Preparing submissions for Plant Heritage – National Plant Collections® recognition. |
Historical Research
Historical study forms the backbone of our conservation work. Through archival records, period publications and collaboration with local historians, we aim to preserve the stories behind the plants and the people who bred them, along with the communities they inspired.
Learn more about:
Education, Talks & Workshops
Public engagement is an important part of our work. Talks and workshops share knowledge on topics such as plant conservation, propagation techniques and historical cultivar research. Events are hosted across Norfolk and beyond and at shows, encouraging visitors to discover more about the stories behind the plants.
Visit our Talks & Workshops or Events pages for upcoming dates and participation details.
Collaboration & Conservation
Research and heritage work would not be possible without collaboration. Harper & Debbage works alongside plant societies, heritage organisations and conservation charities to strengthen horticultural knowledge and safeguard cultivated diversity.
Partners and references include:
Together, these efforts ensure that historic cultivars continue to inspire gardeners and researchers alike.
Explore Further
- Fuchsia Gall Mite Tracker →
- James Lye – Victorian Plantsman →
- Robin Clitheroe – Norfolk Hybridiser →
- Talks & Workshops →
- Events →
Each link provides deeper insight into how research and heritage intertwine across our collections.