Richard Hawke

Richard Hawke’s nickname should be Mr. Plant. As the plant evaluation manager for the Chicago Botanic Garden, he has researched, monitored, and written about more plants than most. Since 1986 his area of focus at CBG has been ornamental plant evaluation, invasive species testing of wild-collected and ornamental plants, and the evaluation of native and cultivated plants for green roofs. In his “spare” time you’ll find Richard organizing events for the Perennial Plant Association in his role as regional director of the Midwest. When he’s not doing all that, you’ll likely find him stuck in Chicago commuter traffic—or tending his own incredible garden.