Leading botanist known for dedication and attention to detail

MAURA SCANNELL, who died earlier this month at the age of 87, was one of Ireland’s leading botanists with a unique understanding and appreciation of the importance of plants in Irish culture.

When she retired from her position as head of the National Herbarium in 1989, she had established the largest collection by any single botanist.

She published more than 200 scientific studies, and her nomination for the National Botanic Gardens Medal in 2008 was in recognition of her extraordinary contribution. In 1995, she was also made an honorary member of the Botanical Society of the British Isles.

Born in Cork, Scannell was one of seven children reared by Patrick and Margaret Scannell in Douglas.

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