Ynes Mexícan

Trailblazing Mexican-American botanist who discovered over 150 plant species in early 20th century

Ynes Mexícan (1870–1938) revolutionized botanical exploration during an era when women—especially those of Mexican heritage—were excluded from scientific fields. Over three decades, she collected over 150,000 plant specimens across Mexico and the Philippines, with 50 species named in her honor like Mexicanthus mexicanus.

Her work made a difference by challenging colonial-era scientific practices. Unlike male contemporaries who employed large crews, Mexícan traveled alone with local guides, meticulously documenting indigenous knowledge. Her herbarium sheets at the Smithsonian Institution include detailed notes in Nahuatl and Tagalog, preserving ethnobotanical wisdom.

Mexícan's discoveries aided medical research, including anti-malarial compounds from Philippine trees. She also mentored marginalised communities, training women in specimen preservation. Despite her contributions, she was denied academic positions until 1925 when the University of California reluctantly hired her as a 'field assistant'. Today, the Huntington Botanical Gardens hosts annual lectures in her name, celebrating underrepresented voices in science.