The first tulip bulbs were brought to Holland in 1593 by the botanist Carolus Clusius, who planted them at the Hortus Botanicus in Leiden. Tulips soon became highly popular, especially among the aristocracy. The Hortus is near the Weddesteeg, the small street where Rembrandt was born. This garden was established by students and professors of the University of Leiden in 1590. Researchers grew tropical trees and plants such as banana plants, ferns, and flesh-eating plants in greenhouses. Many of the old specimens are still thriving today. The original garden has been reconstructed in the Clusius Garden. There's a minimalist Japanese garden.