William Aiton

William Aiton, born in 1731 near Hamilton, was a prominent Scottish horticulturist and botanist whose contributions to botany are still recognized today. After receiving formal training as a gardener, he moved to London in 1754, where he became the assistant to Philip Miller, the superintendent of the Chelsea Physic Garden.

In 1759, Aiton was appointed as the director of the newly established botanical garden at Kew, a position he held until his passing. During his tenure, he implemented numerous improvements to the gardens, significantly enhancing their reputation and functionality. His most notable work, the 'Hortus Kewensis,' was published in 1789, cataloging the diverse array of plants cultivated at Kew.

Aiton's legacy continued through his eldest son, William Townsend Aiton, who published a second and enlarged edition of the 'Hortus' between 1810 and 1813. Aiton is also commemorated in the specific epithet 'aitonis,' a testament to his impact on the field of botany.

In addition to his cataloging efforts, Aiton made significant contributions to plant classification, including the classification of the Sampaguita plant into the Jasminium genus, naming it Arabian Jasmine based on the belief that it originated from the Arabian Peninsula, despite its actual origins being elsewhere. He is interred at St. Anne's Church in Kew, leaving behind a rich legacy in horticulture and botany.