14 
arrangement,” Many of these still remain and have 
attained a considerable size; one of the most conspicuous 
is the fine specimen of Pinus monticola, now 56 feet 
high. 
Kew owes its existing Pinetum to Sir Joseph Hooker, 
who has always taken a peculiar interest in this ancient 
and striking group of plants. A visit to Syria in 1860 
enabled him to study the Cedar of Lebanon in its native 
locality. 
Perhaps one of the most interesting achievements of 
the late Turkish Ambassador, Rustem Pacha, was his 
successful efforts, while Governor of Northern Syria, to 
preserve what was left of the ancient grove. 
In 1877 Sir Joseph Hooker’s interest in Conifers was 
one of the main influences which induced him to under- 
take an extensive journey in Western North America. 
He brought back a rich harvest of specimens which were 
deposited in the Kew Museum. 
The Kew Pinetum has been carefully developed on the 
lines which Sir Joseph Hooker laid down. These are 
sufficiently indicated in the following extract from his 
Report for 1872 (pp. 4-5). 
“Pinetum. — This, which is by far the most important 
and extensive collection in the grounds, is now all but 
completed. In my Report for 1871 I stated that the 
genera Abies, Picea, and a few others had been planted 
along the new walk on the south side of the Lake. 
These extend for 160 yards on both sides of the path, 
and are now succeeded by the collection of Pinus 
proper, which extends from the termination of Abies to 
