A voyage of horticultural discovery through the centuries and the seasons of the Middle Ages, this guide explains the significance of medieval flowers, whether for medical, ritual, or cosmetic purposes. Miranda Innes explores the rituals and festivals in which flowers played a vital part, surveys the designs of physic, kitchen, and pleasure gardens, and introduces us to medieval gardens that can still be visited today. From peony to poppy, Solomon’s seal and columbine to lily and iris, beautiful historical illustrations and stunning photography emphasize the contemplative atmosphere of the gardens, all of which can be recreated.
This is a truly inventive and well-researched book. It features plants that grew in the UK and Europe's most famous medieval gardens, exploring what the plants were used for, and why, as well as celebrating their beauty. From Peony to Poppy, Solomon's Seal and Columbine to Lily and Iris, the photographs emphasise the contemplative atmosphere of the gardens, all of which can be recreated today. Including beautiful historical illustrations and Clay's stunning photography, this is an enjoyable and informative guide to medieval flowers.
