Selby Gardens is the legacy of Sarasota resident Marie Selby, who left her home and property to the local community to form a botanical garden for the enjoyment of the general public. Since its establishment in 1973, Selby Gardens has grown to cover nearly fifteen acres and features an extensive collection of tropical and subtropical plants from around the world. It is a leader in the study of epiphytes, plants that grow on other plants without harming them, including orchids, bromeliads, and gesneriads.