The secret history of mind-altering plants and fungi will be explored as part of the intoxication season at Kew Gardens.

From the opium poppy, with chemical powers that have shaken economic and political worlds for centuries, to ordinary plants like coffee and tobacco, which are consumed daily, many rare and common plants will feature in the exhibition.

Visitors will see living displays of the fascinating, yet notorious, mind-altering plants in the Princess of Wales Conservatory before heading to the film room to enjoy a daily programme of short documentaries, shown in conjunction with the Royal Anthropological Institute.

Along with seeing how some plants’ identities have been manipulated through time, sometimes for the good, but often for the bad, the season will highlight the offerings from the natural world and how powerful their chemicals can be.

Throughout the weekends, alcohol, coffee, magic mushrooms and more will be looked at during talks and workshops across Kew, with guest speakers including Professor David Nutt and Professor Simmonds.

The pair will share their knowledge and explore content-ious subjects in depth, exploring the uses mind-altering plants have had through history and in different cultures.

Be sure not to miss the cannabis plants also on display, but under lock and key and the watchful eyes of Kew Gardens security.

Weekends during the season at Kew will also be packed with other events and activities from Bompas and Parr’s Plant Connoisseurs Club, the Botanical Bar and in the Hemp Knitting Tent.

The Intoxication Season: Mind-altering plants and fungi; Kew Gardens, Kew; September 20 until October 12, 9.30am to 6pm; £15 adult, £14 concessions, under 16s free when accompanied by an adult; visit kew.org.