Tomitaro Makino was a prominent Japanese botanist, known for his extensive work in plant taxonomy and his contributions to the field of botany in Japan. Born on June 24, 1862, he is often referred to as the "father of Japanese botany" for his efforts in classifying and documenting the flora of Japan. He published numerous scientific papers and was instrumental in establishing the Makino Botanical Garden in Kochi. Makino's research focused on the identification and classification of various plant species, many of which were previously unknown. He discovered and described several new species, contributing significantly to the understanding of Japan's unique biodiversity. His legacy continues to influence botanists and researchers today, highlighting the importance of plant conservation and study.