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Lesser common carex, Carex acutiformis
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Lesser common carex, Carex acutiformis
Lesser common carex, Carex acutiformis (Carex paludosa). Handcoloured copperplate engraving after a drawing by James Sowerby for James Smiths English Botany, 1800
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Media ID 23203284
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Carex Common Lesser Rush Sowerby Paludosa Smith
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This exquisite handcoloured copperplate engraving showcases the Lesser Common Rush, Carex acutiformis (previously known as Carex paludosa), a beautiful and intricately textured sedge native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The engraving is based on a drawing by the renowned botanical artist James Sowerby, created for James Smith's English Botany, published between 1796 and 1819. The Lesser Common Rush is a versatile and hardy plant, thriving in damp environments such as marshes, bogs, and wetlands. Its slender, tubular spikes of brownish-purple flowers contrast beautifully with the bright green, fan-like leaves. The plant's rhizomes help to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, making it an essential component of wetland ecosystems. The intricate details of the engraving reveal the delicate structures of the plant's flowers and leaves, providing an accurate and detailed record of this natural wonder. The use of handcolouring adds an extra layer of depth and vibrancy to the image, bringing the Lesser Common Rush to life and highlighting its unique beauty. Botanical illustrations like this one were an essential part of the natural history movement during the 18th and 19th centuries. They provided scientists, explorers, and collectors with accurate records of new and exotic species, contributing to the advancement of botanical knowledge and the development of botanical gardens around the world. Today, the Lesser Common Rush remains an important plant in both scientific research and conservation efforts. Its ability to thrive in wetland environments makes it a valuable indicator species for the health of these fragile ecosystems, and its intricate structures continue to fascinate and inspire artists and naturalists alike.
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