Orphium frutescens L.
Erect shrub with linear leaves and red flowers in showy cymes. To 60cm. [RHSD].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘This plant should be placed in an airy glad case in winter, where it may enjoy a dry air, and much sun, but will not thrive in a warm stove, nor can it be well preserved in a common greenhouse, because a damp moist air will soon cause it to rot.’ [BM t.37/1788 as Chironia frutescens].
‘Mons. Ventetat, in his accurate work, distinguishes this Chironia from the frutescens. […] it has long been known in our nurseries by the name of latifolia. [It] is a very ornamental greenhouse shrub, occupying but little space and continuing long in bloom. [BM t.707/1803 as Chironia decussata]. BM t.818/1805 as Chironia angustifolia. Introduced to Britain in 1756. [JD].
History at Camden Park
The only record is a handwritten note in an 1850 catalogue in the Mitchell Library collection. [MP A2947A]. It was certainly grown in the gardens at this time.
Notes
Published Mar 05, 2009 - 07:42 PM | Last updated Mar 03, 2010 - 08:49 AM
Orphium frutescens L. | BM t.707/1803 | BHL
| Family | Gentianaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South Africa |
| Synonyms |
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| Common Name | |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Chironia frutescens |
| Confidence level | high |