Australian plant science people

Plant people of Australia

Sometimes it is useful to have a working list of people, both past and present, who have made contributions within a particular topic of study. The list given here of ‘Australian Plant People’ is a quick check-list with all the deficiencies, errors, and omissions that might be expected from such a list. It is, nevertheless, a start and can be supplemented and improved by anyone willing to take on the task. Readers can also consult the following sources of biographical and other information.

Australian Botanists and Illustrators – compiled by the Council of Heads of Australian Herbaria for the Australian National Herbarium.

Biography – biographical notes on plant collectors and illustrators or others relevant to Australian botany, compiled by the Council of Heads of Australian Herbaria for the Australian National Herbarium.

British Museum database of plant collectors – a world-wide listing of plant collectors compiled at the British Museum.

Plant collectors in Malesia – biographical notes on plant collectors in the region of Malesia (a biogeographical region straddling the boundaries of the Indomalaya ecozone and Australasia ecozone, and also a phytogeographical floristic region in the Paleotropical Kingdom) compiled for the Flora of Malesia project.

Some books listing brief biographies of Australian plant people:

Botanists of the Eucalypts Hall, N. 1978. CSIRO: Melbourne
Pathfinders in Tasmanian Botany Burns, D. 2012. The Tasmanian Arboretum Inc.: Devonport
A History of Systematic Botany in Australia Orchard, A.E. 1999. in Flora of Australia Vol. 1 2nd edn ABRS/CSIRO: Australia

Background – Plant people of Australia

Introduction Australia’s rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems have long captivated plant researchers and enthusiasts across various sectors of society. From botanists studying endemic species to gardeners cultivating native flora, Australians have made significant contributions to plant science, conservation, horticulture, and agriculture. This account highlights some of the notable individuals and groups who have dedicated their lives to understanding, promoting, and preserving Australia’s diverse plant life.

Botanists and Researchers Australia boasts a wealth of talented botanists and researchers who have advanced our knowledge of the country’s flora. The likes of Professor Tim Entwisle, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, have made significant contributions to plant taxonomy, conservation, and ethnobotany. Their work has not only expanded our understanding of Australian plants but has also underscored the importance of conservation efforts to protect native species from extinction.

Conservationists and Environmentalists The conservation of Australia’s unique plant species has been a focal point for environmentalists and conservationists alike. Organizations such as Bush Heritage Australia and the Australian Conservation Foundation have been instrumental in safeguarding vulnerable plant species and habitats. Through land acquisition, restoration projects, and advocacy efforts, these groups have played a vital role in preserving Australia’s diverse plant life for future generations.

Indigenous Plant Knowledge Australia’s Indigenous communities have a deep knowledge of the country’s flora, passed down through generations. Indigenous plant knowledge holders like Aunty Fran Bodkin have been instrumental in sharing their understanding of traditional plant uses, ecological practices, and cultural significance. Their expertise not only enriches our understanding of Australian plants but also highlights the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge into conservation and land management practices.

Horticulturists and Gardeners Gardening has long been a beloved pastime in Australia, with horticulturists and gardeners playing a crucial role in promoting the cultivation of native plants. Institutions such as the Australian Plant Society and community gardens like the Royal Botanic Garden Cranbourne have provided platforms for plant enthusiasts to share their passion and knowledge. Through plant sales, workshops, and educational programs, these groups have fostered a deeper appreciation for Australia’s unique flora and encouraged sustainable gardening practices.

Agricultural Innovators Australia’s agricultural sector relies heavily on plant science and innovation to enhance crop yields, improve food security, and mitigate environmental impacts. Agricultural researchers such as Dr. Ram Dalal have pioneered sustainable farming practices, including regenerative agriculture and precision farming, to optimize plant productivity while minimizing ecological harm. Their efforts have helped shape the future of agriculture in Australia and beyond, setting a precedent for sustainable food production.

The individuals and groups highlighted in this account represent just a fraction of the many talented plant researchers and enthusiasts in Australia. Their dedication, expertise, and passion for plants have not only advanced scientific knowledge but have also contributed to the conservation, cultivation, and promotion of Australia’s diverse flora. As we continue to navigate environmental challenges and biodiversity loss, the work of these individuals serves as a testament to the importance of valuing and protecting our plant heritage. By celebrating their contributions and supporting their efforts, we can ensure a greener, more sustainable future for all Australians.

List of Australian plant science people

Frederick Adamson (fl.1840-1856)

Robert Adamson (1885-1965)

David Albrecht (1962- )

Ray Alcock (1921- )

Frederick Anderson ( )Vic

James Anderson (1797-1842)

Cecil Andrews (1879-1951)

George Angas (1822-1886)

Jim Armstrong (1950- )

John Armstrong (?-1847)

David Ashton (1927-2005)

Helen Aston (1934- )

Caroline Atkinson (1834-1872)

Peter Attiwell (? )

James Audas (1872-1959)

Benjamin Babbage (1815-1878)

James Backhouse (1794-1869)

Frederick Bailey (1827-1915)

John Bailey (1800-1864)

John F. Bailey (1866-1938)

John R. Bailey (1914-1956)*

Richard Baker (1855-1941)

William Baker (1857-?)*

Joseph Bancroft (1836-1894)

Thomas Bancroft (1860-1933)

Joseph Banks (1743-1820)

* Bannier (fl.1849-1851 Kangaroo Island)

Bill Barker (1948- )

Robyn Barker (1948- )

Herbert Basedow (1881-1933)

Ferdinand Bauer (1760-1826)

William Baeuerlen ( 1840-1917)

William Baxter (fl. 1820s-1830s)

Noel Beadle (1914-1998)

John Beard (1916- )

Gordon Beaton (1911- )

Joséphine de Beauharnais (1763-1814)

Alexander Beauglehole (1920-2002)

Hermann Beckler (1828-1914)

David Bedford (1952- )

Hans Behr (1818-1904)

Eleanor Bennett (1942- )

George Bentham (1800-1884)

Ernst Betche (1851-1913)

John Bidwill (1815-1853)

John Black (1855-1951)

William Blackall (1876–1941)

Stanley Blake (1911-1973)

Johann Blandowski (1822-?)

Don Blaxell (1934- )

Joseph Bosisto (1827-1898)

Peter Bostock *

John Bracebridge-Wilson (1828-1895)

William Brackenridge (1810-1893)

Barbara Briggs (1934- )

Robert Brown (1773-1858)

William Brown (fl.1792-d.1793)

Alex Buchanan (?)

Daniel Bunce (1813-1872)

Nancy Burbidge (1912-1977)

Nicolaas Burmann (1734-1793)

David Burton (c. 1760s-1792)

Norm Byrnes (1922-1998)

Abraham-Louis Buvelot (1814-1888)

Malcolm Calder (1933- )

George Caley (1770-1829)

Richard Cambage (1859-1928)

Roger Carolin (1929- )

Geoff Carr (1948- )

Antonio Cavanilles (1745-1804)

Jaques-Martin Cels (1743-1806)

Arthur Chapman (1947- )

Jenny Chappill (1959-2006)

Edwin Cheel (1872 – 1951)

George Chippendale (1921-2010)

John Cleland (1878-1971)

Trevor Clifford (1927- )

Helen Cohn *

Betty Conabere (b. 1929-)

Barry Conn (1948- )

John Conran (1960- )

Dennis Considen (~1760-1815)

James Cook (1728-1779)

Mordecai Cooke (1825-1914)

Isobel Cookson (1893-1973)

Leon Costermans (1933- )

Alec Costin (1925- )

Arthur Court (1927- )

Richard Cowan (1921-1997)

Ian Cowie (? NT)

Alan Cribb (1925- )

Allan Cunningham (1791-1839)

Geoff Cunningham (fl.1960-1970)

Winifred Curtis (1905-2005)

ohn Dallachy (~1808-1871)

William Dampier (1651-1715)

Olive Davies (1884-1976)

Félix Delahaye (1767-1829)

* Edmund Delisser ( )

Louis-August Deschamps (1755–1842)

Réné Desfontaines (1750-1833)

Ludwig Diels (1874-1945)

Henry Dodd (1748-1791)

Karel Domin (1893-1953)

Sarah Drake (1803-1857)

Andrew Drinnan *

James Drummond (1784-1863)

Sophie Ducker (1909-2004)

Clyde Dunlop (1946- )

Ludwick Dutkiewicz (1921-2008)

Constance Eardley (1910-1978)

Sydenham Edwards (1768-1819)

Hansjoerg Eichler (1916-1992)

Jack Elix (1941- )

Stephan Endlicher (1804-1849)

Tim Entwisle *

Obed Evans (1916-1954)

Joy Everett (1953- )

Selwyn Everist (1913-1981)

Alfred Ewart (1872-1937)

Edward Eyre (1815-1901)

Francis Ferguson (1824-1892)

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Rex Filson (1930- )

William Fitzgerald (1867-1929)

Rosa Fiveash (1864-1938)

James Fleming (fl. 1798-1803)

Don Foreman (1945-2004)

Alexander Forrest ( )NT

John Forrest (1847-1918)

Paul Forster (1961- )

William Francis (1889-1959)

Charles Fraser (1791-1831)

Charles French sr (1842-1933)

Charles French jr (1868-1950)

Jean Galbraith (1906-1999)

Charles Gardner (1896-1970)

Erwin Gauba (1891-1964)

Charles Gaudichaud-Beaupré (1789-1854)

Alexander George (1939-)

Ernest Giles (1835-1897)

Samuel Gill (1818-1880)

John Glover (1767-1849)

Peter Good (b.? -1803)

George Goyder (1826-1898)

Max Gray (1929- )

John Green (1930- )

Augustus Gregory (1819-1905)

* George Grey (1812-1898)

Brian Grieve (1907-1997)

Antoine Guichenot (1809-1876)

Eugen von Guerard (1811-1901)

Michael Guilfoyle (1809-1884)

William Guilfoyle (1840-1912)

John Guilfoyle (1852-1909)

Paul Gullan *

Ronald Gunn (1808-1881)

Gordon Guymer (1953- )

Laurie Haegi (1952- )

Fadeo Haenke (1761-1817)

Gwen Harden (1940- )

Thomas Hart (1871-1960)

Edwin Haviland (1823-1908)

Alistair Hay *

Richard Helms (1842-1914)

Rodney Henderson (1938- )

Diedrich Henne (1834-?)

Desmond Herbert (1898-1976)

Heinrich Heuzenroeder (1820-1898)

Gerald Hill (1880-1954)

Ken Hill (1948-2010)

Walter Hill (1820-1904)

William Hillebrand (1821-1886)

Roger Hnatiuk (1946- )

Ailsa Holland *

Maurice Holtze (1840-1923)

Nicholas Holtze (1868-1913)

Joseph Hooker (1817-1911)

William Hooker (1785-1865)

Stephen Hopper (1951- )

Frederick House (1865-1936)

Alfred Howitt (1830-1908)

Carl von Hügel (1795-1870)

Jessie Hussey (1862-1899)

Bernie Hyland (1937- )

Ernest Ising (1884-1973)

Surrey Jacobs (1946-2009)

Geoff Jeanes *

Laurie Jessup (1947- )

Lawrie Johnson (1925-1997)

Robert Johnson (1930- )*

Robert Johnston (1925- )*

David Jones (1944- )

Gintaras Kantvilas ()Tas lichens*

Kevin Kenneally (1945- )

Jacques Labillardière (1755–1834)

Lewis Kennedy (1721-1782)

James Kidd (1801-1867)

Joseph Knight (1781-1855)

Gerry Kraft (1939- )

Charles L’Héritier (1746-1800)

Pauline Ladiges (1948- )

Charles La Trobe (1801-1875)

Nicholas Lander (1948- )

Peter Latz (1941)

*Robert Lawrence (1807-1833)

Greg Leach (1952- )

Alma Lee (1912-1990)

James Lee (1715-1795)

Johann Lehmann (1792-1860)

Ludwig Leichhardt (1813-1848)

Charles-Alexandre Lesueur (1778-1846)

Jean-Baptiste Leschenault (1773-1826)

John Lindley (1799-1865)

Archibald Liversidgei (1846-1927)

Conrad Loddiges (1738-1826)

Noel Lothian (1915-2004)

Arthur Lucas (1853-1936)

Johann Luehmann (1843-1904)

Charles (Bogue) Luffmann (1862-1920)

William Macarthur (1800-1882)

John Maconochie (1941-1984)

Terry Macfarlane (1953- )

John Mackay (1795-1888)

Elizabeth Macquarie (1778-1835)

Don McGillivray (1935- )

John MacGillivray (1821-1867)

Joseph Maiden (1859-1925)

Neville Marchant (1939- )

Conrad Martens (1801-1878)

Flora Martin (née Campbell (?-1923)

Bruce Maslin (1946- )

George Maxwell (1804-1880)

Tom May *

Alexander McLeay (1767-1848)

Frederick McCoy (1817-1899)

Frederick McCubbin (1855-1917)

Carl Meisner (1800-1874)

Archibald Menzies ( 1754-1852)

Thomas Mitchell (1792-1855)

Georgiana Molloy (1805-1843)

Charles Moore (1820-1905)

Albert Morris (1886-1939)

Dennis Morris (1924-2005)

Alexander Morrison (1829-1903)

Ferdinand Mueller (1825-1896)

Bruce Muir (1929-?)*

Ahmad Munir (1936- )*

James Murray (fl. 1861-1862)

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Luis Née (fl.1789-1794)

William Nicholls (1885-1951)

Augustus Oldfield (1820-1887)

Tony Orchard (1946- )

Theodore Osborne (1887-1973)

Ferdinand Osswald (fl. 1848-1850)

Sydney Parkinson (c.1745-1771)

William Paterson (1755-1810)

Les Pedley (1930- )

Florence Perrin (??)

Gillian Perry (1943- )

* Raymond Perry ( ) CA

Leonard Plukenet (1642-1706)

Ludwig Preiss (1811-1883)

Ernst Pritzel (1875-1946)

Lindsay Pryor (1915-1998)

John Ray (1627-1705)

Pierre-Joseph Redouté (1759-1840)

Edward Rennie (1861-1923)

Sally Reynolds *

Anselme Riedlé (1775-1801)

Enid Robertson (1925- )

Leonard Rodway (1853-1936)

Estelle Ross (1952- )

Jim Ross (1941- )

Celia Rosser (b. 1930-)

Ellis Rowan (1847-1922)

Herman Rupp (1872-1956)

Barbara Rye (1952- )

Richard Salisbury (1761-1829)

Antoine Sautier (? -1801)

Richard Schomburgk (1811-1891)

Ludwig Schulzen (fl. 1840-50- d. 1881)

Benedetto Scortechini (1845-1886)

Edmund Sealey (1823-1864)

Thomas Shepherd (c. 1779-1835)

Philip Short (1955- )

Franz Sieber (1789-1844)

Bryan Simon (1943- )

Christopher Smith (fl.1792)

Henry Smith (1852-1924)

James Smith (1759-1828)

Lindsay Smith (1917-1970)

Raymond Smith (1923- )

Daniel Solander (1733-1782)

Roger Spencer (1945- )

William Spicer (1820-1879)

Percival St John (1872-1944)

Trevor Stanley (1952- )

Ellis Stones (1895-1975)

Margaret Stones (b. 1920-)

Charles Stuart (1802-1877)

John Stuart (1815-1866)

Charles Sturt (1795-1869)

Daniel Sullivan () vic coll

George Suttor (1774-1859)

David Symon (1957-1985)*

David Symon (1920- )*

Alfred Tadgell (1863-1949)

Ralph Tate (1840-1901)

Johann Tepper (1841-1923)

Kevin Thiele *

Bruce Thompson (?NT)

Joy Thompson (1923- )

Mary Tindale (1920- )

Henry Tisdall (?1836-1905)

Helmut Toelken (1940- )

Fred Turner (1852-1939)

John Turner (1908-1991)

Nicolai Turczaninow (1796-1864)

Frank Udovicic *

Étienne Ventenat (1757-1808)

Louis Ventenat (1765–1794)

Joyce Vickery (1908-1979)

Willem de Vlamingh (1640-c. 1698)

Norman Wakefield (1918-1972)

Neville Walsh (1956- )

Carl Walter (1831-1907)

Peter Warburton (1813-1899)

Henry Watts (1828-1889)

Clara Wehl (1833-1901)

Judy West ( )

William Westall (1781-1850)

Peter Weston (1956- )

Judy Wheeler (1944- )

* Wheeler (? Fl. 1861-1862)

Trevor Whiffen (1947- )

Cyril White (1890-1950)

Joseph Whittaker (1815-1894)

John White (c. 1756-1832)

Samuel White (1870-1954)

Glenn Wightman (?NT)

James Wiles (1768-1851)

Carl Wilhelmi (1829-1884)

Herbert Williamson (1860-1931)

James Willis (1910-1995)

Francis Wilson (1832-1903)

Karen Wilson (1950- )

Paul Wilson (1928- )

Peter Wilson (1950- )

Bill Woelkerling (1941- )

Bryan Womersley (1922-2011)

Joseph Wood (1900-1959)

Walter Zimmer (1898-1967)

Christine Payne

Margaret Saul

Anita Barley

George Forster

Johann Forster (1729–1789

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First published on the internet – 1 March 2019

Uluru from Helicopter
Courtesy Wikimedia Commons – Corey Leopold
Accessed 15 October 2020