Johann Gerhard König was born on 29 November 1728. He was a German botanist and physician by profession. Johann Gerhard served in the Tranquebar Mission, India before joining service under the Nawab of Arcot, and then the English East India Company. John Gerhard was fascinated by collecting natural history specimens including plants, particularly those of medical interest. Many species are named after him including the curry tree (Murraya koenigii). He died on 26 June 1785.
