Makenzie Mabry , Nuala Caomhanach, R. Shawn Abrahams, Michelle Gaynor, Kasey K Pham, Tanisha Williams, Kathleen Murphy, Vassiliki Betty Smocovitis, Douglas E Soltis, Pamela S Soltis

Driven by the national conversation on systemic racism, ongoing inequities, appeals to decolonize science, and the many recent calls for diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, we use stories of plants to discuss the history of bias and exclusionary practices in scientific botany, particularly regarding access to scientific spaces, and the exploitation of marginalized peoples. We discuss the many opportunities and challenges presented by the age of information technology as we seek to create a more inclusive botany that recognizes and acknowledges the contributions of historically marginalized groups, including Black and Indigenous communities. We hope this article can be used as a conversation starter to raise awareness, encourage reflection, and promote action toward creating a more equitable and just scientific practice.