Tenure as Director of the Garden (1849- 1866)
In 1849 James Duncan became the new administrator of the Garden, when he described it as ‘a jungle’ where no new plants had been introduced and the gardener’s tasks were confined to ‘sweeping the dead leaves.
By 1851 Duncan has created new walking alleys and introduced rare plants. As the flow of funds from England had increased and he consequently transformed the Garden with key developments.
The Obélisque Liénard was built in 1861 and The ‘mare’ (marsh) became a ‘Grand Bassin’ in 1862 ; although the felling of trees planted by Poivre and Céré (the cinnamon and mango trees) saddened many.
In 1863 the original Gates at the main entrance of the Garden were installed. Furthermore, the water Canal; passing in front of the entrance, was filled up in order to enhance access to the Garden.
When the bridge was built across the Pamplemousses River, the public road passing through the Garden was definitely closed off. Duncan hence converted this disused road into the Avenue Poivre. The majestic Royal palm (Roystone Regia) which adorns the Avenue Poivre is one of the hundred species of palms introduced by James Duncan.
He published a comprehensive plant catalogue In 1863, reflecting his dedication to enhancing the botanical landscape of Mauritius by introducing various rare species, including the Araucaria Columnaris, Grevillea Robusta, and Terminalia Arjuna to embellish the island’s roads, as well as ornamental varieties of ferns, orchids, azaleas, begonias, and 167 varieties of roses.
Notably, James Duncan introduced bougainvillea, bougainvillea splendens or a begonia speciosa which became a symbol of prestige, as only high-ranking officials could afford it at the time.