Two of arbor vitae, also known as the thuja tree, species are native to North America. His botanical experiences in Canada were driven by his interest from literature and coursework at the University of Wisconsin. While in Meaford, he exchanged letters with Jeanne Carr and Emily Pelton over his discovery of the Calypso borealis, and other rare finds. He writes about his desire “to botanize and admire these glorious manifestations of Creative Skill.”