John Parkinson (botanist)

John-Parkinson

John Parkinson (1567–1650) was an English botanist and one of the last herbalists of the Renaissance. He is best known for his works Paradisi in Sole Paradisus Terrestris (1629) and Theatrum Botanicum (1640), which were influential in the field of botany and horticulture.

Early Life and Career

John Parkinson was born in 1567 in London, England. He initially trained as an apothecary and became a member of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries in 1617. His interest in plants and their medicinal properties led him to pursue a career in botany.

Major Works

Paradisi in Sole Paradisus Terrestris

Paradisi in Sole Paradisus Terrestris (1629) is one of Parkinson's most famous works. The title translates to "Park-in-Sun's Earthly Paradise," a play on his own name. The book is a comprehensive guide to gardening and horticulture, featuring detailed descriptions and illustrations of various plants. It is divided into three sections: the first on flowers, the second on herbs, and the third on fruits and trees.

Theatrum Botanicum

Theatrum Botanicum (1640) is another significant work by Parkinson. It is an extensive herbal that describes over 3,800 plants, making it one of the most comprehensive botanical works of its time. The book includes detailed information on the medicinal uses of plants, their cultivation, and their botanical characteristics.

Contributions to Botany

Parkinson's works were highly influential in the development of botany as a scientific discipline. His detailed descriptions and illustrations of plants provided valuable information for both scientists and gardeners. He was also one of the first to use the term "herbaceous" to describe non-woody plants.

Legacy

John Parkinson's contributions to botany and horticulture have left a lasting impact. His works are still referenced today by botanists and historians. He is remembered as one of the last great herbalists of the Renaissance and a pioneer in the field of botany.

See Also

• Botany
• Herbalism
• Horticulture
• Apothecary
• Renaissance