The vPlants Project is a collaborative initiative among three leading botanical institutions: The Morton Arboretum, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Chicago Botanic Garden. Established in January 2001, vPlants, or "virtual Plants," offers a comprehensive online database that provides free access to plant specimen data and digital images for users worldwide. This invaluable resource is particularly focused on the Chicago Region, encompassing 24 counties across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin, an area characterized by its unique glacial history and rich floristic diversity.

Through interactive tools such as dynamic keys and checklists, vPlants not only aids in plant identification and research but also supports conservation efforts by highlighting species of special concern. The commitment to education and accessibility makes vPlants an indispensable resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in the botanical heritage of the Great Lakes region. Whether browsing inventories or using the Aquatic Invasive Plant Guide, users can explore the naturalized flora available at their fingertips.