James Veitch Jr

James Veitch (1815–1869) was part of a distinguished family of horticulturists and co-founded the renowned Veitch Nurseries. Born in Devon, he trained in London before returning to assist his father at the Exeter nursery, where he became a partner in 1838. That year, he married Harriott Gould, and the couple settled near their nursery in Gras Lawn villa.

Recognizing the limitations of their Devon-based business, Veitch acquired Knight and Perry’s Royal Exotic Nursery in Chelsea in 1853. Under his leadership, this nursery expanded significantly, operating as eleven specialized sections overseen by skilled foremen. By 1863, due to the growing size of both businesses, the Exeter and London branches became independent entities: Exeter was taken over by Robert Veitch & Sons, while London retained the name James Veitch & Sons, managed by Veitch’s sons John Gould, Harry James, and Arthur.

Veitch was a key figure in horticulture, serving on the RHS Council from 1856 to 1864 and contributing to the creation of significant committees. The Veitch Memorial Medal was established in his honor for his substantial contributions to the field. His efforts transformed the Royal Exotic Nursery into Europe’s leading nursery.