Frank Kingdon-Ward

A British botanist and explorer, Francis Kingdon-Ward dedicated his life to mapping and collecting plants in remote regions of Asia, including Tibet, China, and Myanmar. His expeditions were often perilous, with him surviving numerous injuries and accidents, yet his indomitable spirit of discovery propelled him forward. He secured the first viable seeds of iconic plants such as the Himalayan blue poppy and a giant primrose named for his first wife. Beyond his scientific pursuits, he also served as a British spy, leading a life rich with adventure, discovery, and resilience.