Lawrie Metcalf (1928-2017) was one of New Zealand's most highly regarded horticulturists and had been awarded many national and international honours. This included the Loder Cup and the Royal Society's Gold Veitch Memorial Medal for services to horticulture. He was the author of numerous books, including A Photographic Guide to Trees, A Photographic Guide to Ferns, as well as Know your New Zealand Trees and Know your New Zealand Native Plants.