Ernest (Chinese) Wilson

Ernest Henry Wilson (1876–1930) – Plant Explorer 

Often called "Chinese" Wilson, he was one of the most successful plant hunters of the early 20th century. 

• Major Contributions: He introduced approximately 2,000 Asian plant species to the West, including many garden favorites like the Regal Lily, the Dove Tree (Davidia involucrata), and the Kiwifruit.

• Expeditions: He led four major expeditions to China (between 1899 and 1911) and later explored Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

• The "Lily Limp": During a 1910 expedition in China, his leg was crushed by an avalanche. He used his camera tripod as a splint to hike back to safety, resulting in a permanent limp he famously called his "lily limp".

• Legacy: He served as the Director of the Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University. Over 60 plant species are named after him.