Sir William Hooker

Sir William Hooker (1785–1865) was a prominent British botanist and the first director of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. He was a leading expert in plant science, expanding Kew's collections and promoting scientific research and plant cultivation. Hooker played a key role in advancing botanical knowledge during the 19th century, supporting international plant exploration, and fostering innovations in horticulture. His leadership helped establish Kew Gardens as a world-renowned center for botanical study, making significant contributions to science, education, and the understanding of plant diversity.