大象传媒

Singer, story teller and seven-times Radio 2 Folk Awards winner, Karine Polwart brings together her love of science, history and the natural world.

She begins the series with the story of the Sabal Bermudana. This rare palm tree was the pride of Edinburgh鈥檚 Royal Botanic gardens and the oldest specimen in their living collection. Sadly the plant鈥檚 own desire to seek the light sealed its fate, as its growth threatened to push through the dome of the garden鈥檚 iconic Victorian glass house. On the eve of its cutting down, Karine and fellow artist-in-residence Pippa Murphy, hosted a living wake: acknowledging the grief of the gardeners who tended the tree.
But it turns out the Sabal Bermudana had been carrying a secret for all of its 200 year plus life, one which speaks of colonialism鈥檚 history of plundering the natural botanical wealth of former colonies. It would seem the palm tree will have the last laugh over those who venerated its rarity. As Karine discovers, the natural world resists being forced into the boxes we try to create for it.

Through song and narration, Karine gives voice to the palm tree, charting its long history and relationship with those who鈥檝e watered, fed and pruned it over the centuries. And she reveals its true identify.

Produced by Peter McManus
Written and presented by Karine Polwart
Music by Karine Polwart and Pippa Murphy

Vocals - Karine Polwart
Piano - Dave Milligan
Small pipes - Gary West
Additional recording - Mattie Foulds

With thanks to Simon Allen, Emma Nicholson, Amy Porteous, Alan Elliot, Shauna Hay, and Ian Edwards of the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh.