John Gerard

John Gerard (1545–1612) was an English herbalist and barber-surgeon known for his comprehensive book, "The Herball, or Generall Historie of Plantes." While his work became a significant gardening and herbal reference in the 17th century, it was largely a translation and adaptation of Rembert Dodoens' earlier herbal. Gerard's own contributions included some plants from his garden in Holborn and a few from North America. The book's illustrations were primarily derived from Continental European sources, though it featured an original title page engraving. Gerard cultivated an extensive garden in Holborn, which became a notable feature and the subject of his earlier "Catalogue of Plants" in 1596, the first of its kind. He held positions within the Barber-Surgeons' Company and served as a curator for the College of Physicians' physic garden. Despite claims of extensive travel, his actual journeys appear to have been limited.

John Gerard's most famous publication, "The Herball, or Generall Historie of Plantes," first appeared in 1597. This extensive, illustrated volume, comprising 1,484 pages, was a significant resource for gardening and herbalism throughout the 17th century. However, the work is largely recognized as an English translation and adaptation of Rembert Dodoens' 1554 herbal. Gerard incorporated plants from his own considerable garden in Holborn and introduced some species from North America. The book's visual elements, including drawings and woodcuts, were predominantly sourced from European publications, with the exception of an original title page created by William Rogers. Later editions expanded upon Gerard's original text.

Gerard's professional life was primarily within the Barber-Surgeons' Company, where he advanced through various roles, eventually becoming Master of the company. He managed a significant garden in Holborn, which he frequently referenced and even published a catalogue of in 1596. This garden was known for its collection of rare plants, including exotic species from the New World. His expertise led him to supervise the gardens of William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley, for over two decades, and he served as curator of the College of Physicians' physic garden. Gerard's reputation as a skilled herbalist was recognized, and he received plants and seeds from international contacts.

“and since that Doctor Priest, one of our London Colledge, hath (as I heard) translated the last edition of Dodonaeus, which meant to publish the same; but being prevented by death, his translation likewise perished: lastly, my selfe one of the least among many, have presumed to set foorth unto the view of the world, the first fruits of these mine own labours”