Great beers are the stuff of which legends are made, and an essential factor in creating beers that stand apart from the crowd is the plants used in brewing them.

Plant scientist Tim Boland and Scott Arboretum educator Julie Jenney will be at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 25, to present an evening of tasting, learning, and talking about beer.

Through stories and humor, and sharing their contagious passion for beer, Boland and Jenney will discuss the many fascinating facets of one of the world’s oldest prepared beverages. They’ll introduce the botanical components of beer, but also the fruits, spices, and, of course, hops, that go into the mix. They’ll explore unique characteristics of different beers and suggest the best foods and glassware to pair with various brews.

Tastings of several craft beers will help participants discover for themselves the differences among beers and what factors might influence the taste, color, and other features of each selection.

Sandwiches and snacks are included in the admission fee of $60 for members and $72 for nonmembers. This entertaining program, entitled “The Botany of Beer,” will be in the Kitchen Garden Café in the Visitor Center.

Tim Boland, a nationally recognized plantsman, author, photographer and lecturer, is the director of the Polly Hill Arboretum on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. He is fascinated with the craft brew industry, its history and recent rise in popularity, and is also a home brewer.

Julie Jenney is the educational programs coordinator for the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania. She enjoys sharing with fellow garden and beer enthusiasts her passion for both horticulture and craft beer.

Preregistration is required. To sign up or for more information, visit www.mainegardens.org, or call 207-633-4333, ext. 101. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is on Barters Island Road in Boothbay.