Darwin Correspondence Project

Luxembourg-born Belgian botanist and explorer. Studied science, University of Brussels, 1835. Collected plants on horticultural expeditions to Brazil, Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, and the US, 1835–45. Launched his first horticultural establishment in Luxembourg, 1845; took over Ambrose Verschaffeit’s horticultural business in Ghent, 1869. Scientific director of the zoological garden in Brussels, 1852–61. Known for his orchid cultivation and illustrations.