Regis Crisnaire: Curator at The Botanical Gardens of Paris

As the curator for the Botanical Gardens of Paris, Regis Crisnaire has dedicated his life to plants. This passion has grown over his life, starting from his childhood when he’d grow vegetables with his parents. 

Through growing huge courgettes and learning how important nature was – especially in cities where the buildings leave little room for plants – Regis developed a fondness for plants that he wants to spread to others. 

“...we had to take up arms and understand a little better how nature worked. It was this intuition that passed on to me. Now, I like to share it with everyone.” 

For Regis, a big part of the importance of the gardens is to be a guardian for nature. He takes special care to curate condensed eco-systems where the vast variety of species, including endangered ones, can thrive.

“We feel that humanity, in some way, has damaged nature. But, with the botanical garden, it also gives itself the means to pay a little special attention…to plants that are often endangered, frequently due to our own actions, and it is our duty to protect them.” 

Even after decades of working with plants, Regis continues to be constantly amazed by them. He urges others to learn more about them, so that they will grow a respect for nature that has defined his life. 

“It’s just a heartfelt plea: let’s try to get to know it better and understand it better. Meaning to better protect it and respect it.” 

A film by Leslie Askew.

Produced by Turlough White.

Special thanks to Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil, Regis Crisnaire, and Mairie de Paris.