Peter Wyse Jackson wins Elizabeth Medal of Honour

Peter Wyse Jackson; picture source: Botanic Gardens Conservation International

One of Elizabeth Medal of Honour winners 2026 was an Irish botanist and environmentalist - Peter Wyse Jackson

Careers

9 April 2026

The Elizabeth Medal of Honour was established in 2023, with the gracious assent of King Charles III, in perpetual remembrance of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.

The medal enables the RHS Council to confer conspicuous honour on international horticulturists and UK non-horticulturists who have significantly impacted the advancement of the science, art or practice of horticulture for the benefit of all generations and the environment.

“A huge congratulations to all recipients of this year’s RHS People Awards, each of whom has made an invaluable impact on horticulture through their passionate dedication and expertise,” Tim Upson, RHS director of Gardens and Horticulture, said.

He added: “from the creation of world-class gardens and research centres to wildlife gardening and horticulture for health and wellbeing, this year’s recipients have broadened access to horticulture and strengthened education and sustainable practice across the sector.”

One of Elizabeth Medal of Honour winners 2026 was an Irish botanist and environmentalist – Peter Wyse Jackson.

He has given outstanding service to botanic garden management, plant conservation and the development of international conservation strategies, alongside leading Glasnevin Botanic Gardens, Botanic Gardens Conservation International and Missouri Botanical Garden.

After his time as curator of Trinity College Botanic Garden, he joined the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources at Royal Botanic Garden Kew, where he was fundamental in establishing Botanic Gardens Conservation International and later became its Secretary General.

In this role, Jackson played a leading part in creating the United Nations Global Strategy for Plant Conservation.

He went on to become director of the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin in 2005, where he initiated significant developments and strengthened national conservation work, before becoming president of Missouri Botanical Garden in 2010, one of the most successful botanical institutions in the world, where he helped expand its influence and impact.

Big congratulations to Peter Wyse Jackson from the Growtrade.ie team.