One personality that comes to mind is Tony Avent. Perhaps you know of him. He has a zany sense of humor that is ever-present in his catalogs, his newsletters, his many articles, and as an interviewee. His horticultural knowledge is absolutely amazing. Among his accomplishments, aside from his Plant Delights nursery, are numerous plant introductions and botanizing trips to various parts of the world. He is well-connected in the world of horticulture and has appeared on Martha Stewart's show several times.
https://www.plantdelights.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T...