Liberty Hyde Bailey Award
The Cactus & Succulent Society of America, Inc. (CSSA) is proud to share that Brian Kemble, curator of The Ruth Bancroft Garden, has been honored with the prestigious Liberty Hyde Bailey Award, by the American Horticultural Society, for his lifetime contributions to horticulture. With nearly 50 years of dedication, Kemble has played a pivotal role in expanding and preserving arid-climate plant collections, leading plant exploration efforts, and educating the public on water-wise gardening.
His leadership has transformed The Ruth Bancroft Garden into a world-renowned institution, inspiring conservation, research, and climate-conscious landscaping. Through publications, lectures, and hands-on mentorship, Kemble has significantly influenced the study and appreciation of succulents.
Brian is a former CSSA Board Member, esteemed speaker at the upcoming CSSA 2025 Biennial Convention in San Diego, recipient of the 2023 CSSA Superior Service Award, and a current member of the CSSA Research Committee.
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