William Aiton (1731-1793) was a Scottish botanist and horticulturist known for his significant contributions to the field of botany and for his work as a curator of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in England.

Key Contributions and Achievements:

1. Curator of Kew Gardens: Aiton was appointed as the curator of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew in 1759, succeeding his father, William Aiton Sr. He held this position for over three decades, during which he expanded and improved the gardens, transforming them into a leading botanical institution.
2. Plant Classification and Nomenclature: Aiton was well-versed in the Linnaean system of plant classification, and he utilized it extensively in his work. He played a crucial role in cataloging and describing a vast number of plant species, both cultivated and wild.
3. “Hortus Kewensis”: One of Aiton’s most significant works is the “Hortus Kewensis,” a three-volume publication that cataloged the plants cultivated at Kew Gardens up to 1789. It provided detailed descriptions and classifications of over 5,000 species.
4. “Hortus Kewensis” Supplement: Aiton published a supplement to the “Hortus Kewensis” in 1810, further expanding the work and adding more plant species.
5. Botanical Illustrations: Aiton collaborated with renowned botanical artists and illustrators to create accurate and detailed illustrations of various plant species.
6. Legacy: Aiton’s contributions to botany and horticulture, particularly his work at Kew Gardens, greatly advanced the knowledge and understanding of plant taxonomy and the cultivation of plants. His “Hortus Kewensis” and its supplement remain valuable resources for botanists and researchers.

William Aiton’s work at Kew Gardens established the institution as a leading center for botanical research and horticultural excellence. His dedication to plant classification and documentation has had a lasting impact on the study of botany, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in the world of botanical science.