Purple Tufted. Leopoldia comosa, Tassel Hyacinth, Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Great Carolus Linnaeus for this beautiful plant used the generic name 'Hyacinthus'. The first extensive description of it was by Filippo Parlatore (1816-1877), the great botanist of Florence, in 1845. His idea for a national Italian herbarium (1841) was taken up and financed largely by Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, (1797-1870). Out of gratitude, Parlatore renamed our plant for his benefactor: Leopoldia comosa. In his description he waxes eloquent about his patron.
Leopoldia isn't just a pretty plant, but it's also edible and considered a delicacy especially in Mediterranean countries.
Purple Tufted. Leopoldia comosa, Tassel Hyacinth, Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Great Carolus Linnaeus for this beautiful plant used the generic name 'Hyacinthus'. The first extensive description of it was by Filippo Parlatore (1816-1877), the great botanist of Florence, in 1845. His idea for a national Italian herbarium (1841) was taken up and financed largely by Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, (1797-1870). Out of gratitude, Parlatore renamed our plant for his benefactor: Leopoldia comosa. In his description he waxes eloquent about his patron.
Leopoldia isn't just a pretty plant, but it's also edible and considered a delicacy especially in Mediterranean countries.