Georg Joseph Kamel

Georg Joseph Kamel (1661-1706)

Georg Joseph Kamel (April 21, 1661 – May 2, 1706) was a Jesuit missionary and botanist whose work laid the foundations for the study of Philippine flora. His contributions to botany and medicine were significant, leading to the naming of the Camellia genus after him by Carl Linnaeus.

Early Life and Education

Georg Joseph Kamel was born in Brno, Moravia (now in the Czech Republic). Little is known about his early life before he joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1682. As a Jesuit, Kamel was sent to the Philippines in 1688, where he would spend the rest of his life.

Work in the Philippines

Upon his arrival in the Philippines, Kamel took an interest in the local flora and fauna. He was stationed in Manila but traveled extensively throughout the islands, collecting plants and studying their uses, especially for medicinal purposes. Kamel was not only a keen botanist but also served as a pharmacist, preparing medicines for the local population and the missionaries.

Kamel's most significant contribution to botany was his herbarium and the catalog of Philippine plants, which he meticulously compiled. His work was detailed and systematic, providing descriptions and illustrations of numerous species, many of which were previously unknown to European science.

Legacy

Kamel's contributions to botany were recognized by Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, who named the genus Camellia after him. The Camellia genus includes several species of great horticultural and economic importance, such as the tea plant (Camellia sinensis).

Despite his significant contributions, Kamel's work was not widely known until after his death. His manuscripts and drawings were sent to Europe, where they were studied by other botanists and contributed to the expanding knowledge of Asian flora.

Death

Georg Joseph Kamel died on May 2, 1706, in Manila, after serving in the Philippines for 18 years. His legacy lives on through his contributions to botany and the genus named in his honor.

See Also

• Botany
• Jesuit missions in Asia
• History of the Philippines
• Carl Linnaeus