The Société de la flore valdôtaine
Amateur botanists who have been studying the valley’s plants since 1858
The Société de la flore valdôtaine (Aosta Valley Flora Society) was founded in 1858. For more than 160 years its members have been exploring the mountain pastures and rocky slopes to study the region’s plants, protect them and make them better known.
The founders
It all began with a small group of curious people who decided to pool what they knew. Among them were canons, teachers and simple lovers of botany. Their aim was to study the flora and minerals of the Aosta Valley, then share their discoveries with the public.
A herbarium, inventories, books
Over the years the Society’s members have built up a large herbarium. They have recorded the medicinal plants used for centuries by the people of the valley. They have also published many scientific studies. Much of what is known today about the flora of the Aosta Valley comes from their work.
The Chanousia garden
The Society’s name is also linked to the Chanousia alpine botanical garden, at the Little St Bernard Pass. At more than 2,000 metres, this garden displays a collection of alpine plants. It shows how plants adapt to the cold, the wind and the short season of the high mountains.
Outings, talks and research
The Society is still active. It organises field outings, talks and exhibitions open to all. Its members take part in research and conservation projects to protect natural habitats and endangered species. Anyone can join in its activities.
