Joseph Francis Rock: The Explorer Who Brought Rhododendrons and Chestnuts to America

Joseph F. Rock (1884-1962), an Austrian-American explorer, botanist, linguist, teacher, photographer, and geographer known for his extensive explorations and botanical collections, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, where he spent over two decades.

Hawaii’s First Botanist January 13, 1884 Today is the birthday of the eccentric Hawaiian-based botanist, anthropologist, and explorer Joseph Francis Rock. Joseph was born in Austria but ended up immigrating to the United States before eventually settling in Hawaii, where he was beloved. In fact, Joseph became Hawaii’s first official botanist. Joseph started teaching as…

Read More

January 13, 2021 Gardening Trends for 2021, John Gilbert Baker, Joseph Francis Rock, Holly, and Ivy with Beth Chatto, A Small Porch by Wendell Berry, and Helen Morgenthau Fox on Garden Cinderellas

The Daily Gardener Podcast Album Cover with a pot of rosemary - the herb for remembrance - beckoning gardeners to remember to listen to the show. Updated September 2025.

Subscribe Apple | Google | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Support The Daily Gardener Buy Me A Coffee Connect for FREE! The Friday Newsletter | Daily Gardener Community Curated News Experts Predict Gardening Trends for 2021 | Candide | Marc Rosenberg Botanical History On This Day 1834 Birthday of John Gilbert Baker, revered British field…

Read More