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Purple starthistle, Centaurea calcitrapa
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Purple starthistle, Centaurea calcitrapa
Purple starthistle, Centaurea calcitrapa. Handcoloured copperplate engraving after an illustration by James Sowerby from James Smiths English Botany, London, 1793
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Media ID 23202542
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Centaurea Herbal Purple Sowerby Smith
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This exquisite hand-colored copperplate engraving showcases the vibrant beauty of the Purple Starthistle, Centaurea calcitrapa. The intricate detail in this botanical illustration, created by James Sowerby and published in James Smith's English Botany in 1793, invites us to explore the delicate structures of this fascinating plant. The Purple Starthistle, also known as Centaurea calcitrapa, is a native plant of Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Its common name derives from the star-shaped arrangement of its pink to purple ray flowers, which resemble the points of a star. The plant's foliage is covered in fine, white hairs, giving it a silvery appearance. Botanical illustrations like this one played a crucial role in the development of scientific knowledge during the 18th and 19th centuries. They provided accurate records of plant species, facilitating research and the identification of new discoveries. The meticulous process of creating hand-colored copperplate engravings ensured that each detail was rendered with the utmost precision and clarity. The Purple Starthistle has various uses in traditional medicine. Its leaves and roots have been used to treat wounds, burns, and skin conditions. Additionally, it has been used as a diuretic and to alleviate symptoms of gout. However, it is essential to note that modern scientific research is necessary to validate these traditional uses and ensure their safety. This stunning botanical illustration is a testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world, as well as the dedication and skill of the artists and scientists who documented it. It invites us to appreciate the intricacies of the Purple Starthistle and to marvel at the wonders of nature.
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