decorative composite image of dried botanicals

Dried Botanical ID

An image-based tool to support identification of dried botanical material

Dried botanicals are imported for varied uses including potpourri, decorative plant arrangements, and handicraft items. In the twenty-first century market, dried botanicals consist of whole or sectioned fungi, fruits, seeds, leaves, and almost anything that is botanical, has abundant air spaces ("physical fixatives" for the synthetic oils), has structural interest, and/or is inexpensive (e.g. lawn sweepings and waste products of other industries). Because these botanical materials are often not only sectioned but also bleached and/or dyed and then scented with fragrance oils, a botanical key to the whole plant, or even plant parts, is not practical. Thus, in this unique identification tool, features such as shape, size, and texture are used. The tool relies heavily upon the use of images, including an interactive image gallery.