Born in Vienna in 1735, Plenck was a famous physician and botanist with many interests in anatomy and pharmacology. In 1770 the Empress Maria Theresia had founded the University of Tyrnau and Plenck was to serve as professor on suregeon and obstetrician. In 1783 he applied to Joseph II, the Emperor, as director of the military pharmacies in Vienna and was appointed professor of chemistry and botany. Plenck was without any doubt one of the pioneer in botany, whose work was noted for its accurate scientific description of its subjects.
