The article deals with a key invention by N. B. Ward for successful plant introductions – the Wardian case. The personality of Dr. Ward and his invention are presented within the context of the science and culture of the British Victorian era. The multiple problems linked to plant introductions in the pre-Wardian times, the later application of the Wardian case for the spread of cash crops, as well as its fashionable modifications and role in the Pteridomania are discussed.
Wardian case; N. B. Ward; plant transports; plant introductions; British Empire; plant trade
ISSN 0300-4414 (print)
ISSN 2788-3485 (online)
founded 1968
Published by Society for the History of Sciences and Technology http://www.sdvt.cz
Pavel Mervart Publishing http://www.pavelmervart.cz/
