Mary Anne Robb facts for kids
Mary Ann Robb (1829–1912) was an amazing English botanist and gardener from the 1800s. She loved plants and collected many different kinds. A special plant, Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, is even named after her! Mary Ann helped make this plant very popular in gardens across Britain.
She owned land in London and also a beautiful place called Chiltley Place in Liphook. There, she designed and created a wonderful garden herself. Besides being a botanist, Mary Ann Robb was also an artist. Her drawings of plants are kept safe at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which is a famous place for plant science.
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Who Was Mary Ann Robb?
Mary Ann Robb was born in 1829. She became known for her deep knowledge of plants and her skill in gardening. She wasn't just someone who enjoyed gardening; she actively studied plants, collected them, and helped introduce new varieties to others.
What is a Botanist?
A botanist is a scientist who studies plants. They learn about how plants grow, where they live, and how they are related to each other. Mary Ann Robb was a botanist because she spent her life studying and working with plants.
What is a Horticulturalist?
A horticulturalist is someone who grows plants, often for food, medicine, or beauty. They are experts in gardening and plant cultivation. Mary Ann Robb was also a horticulturalist because she designed and cared for her own gardens.
Mary Ann Robb's Contributions to Botany
Mary Ann Robb made important contributions to the world of plants. Her work helped people learn more about different plant species and how to grow them.
The Plant Named After Her
One of her most famous achievements is having a plant named in her honor: Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae. This plant is a type of wood spurge, known for its pretty green leaves and yellow-green flowers. It's a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years. Mary Ann Robb played a big part in making this plant well-known in British gardens.
Her Gardens and Collections
Mary Ann Robb created beautiful gardens, especially at Chiltley Place in Liphook. These gardens were not just for show; they were places where she could experiment with different plants and study them up close. She also collected many plant specimens, which are important for scientific research.
Mary Ann Robb as an Artist
Beyond her work with plants, Mary Ann Robb was also a talented artist. She created detailed drawings of plants. These drawings are very valuable because they show what plants looked like during her time and help scientists understand plant history. Her artwork is preserved at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which is a major center for botanical research and education.
