13-04-2025, 12:06 PM
The stock elements thing is certainly true, but it also doesn't define the whole paradigm. Each plant (bar a few cross-section repeats) is unique, and many have unique elements to them. Something weirdly repeating is going on with the flowers, where one would think that they overuse a few basic types, which are sometimes copied exactly and placed on the wrong kind of plant. But the leaves display an unusual variety. Even the roots, which in nature and some other herbals are often generic looking, in the VM each have their own flair.
Even this flower, which does include the common element of the long stamen, has unique elements to it. One of the "heads" is closed, the other open. They don't have the more common lily shape, but rather one appropriate for (an approximation of) something like crocus. The scale makes sense. One could argue about the thickness of the roots, but I take your point. The leaves are alright.
In general, I have a feeling that we still struggle with finding the best paradigm for discussing these plants. It's good to think about this though.
Even this flower, which does include the common element of the long stamen, has unique elements to it. One of the "heads" is closed, the other open. They don't have the more common lily shape, but rather one appropriate for (an approximation of) something like crocus. The scale makes sense. One could argue about the thickness of the roots, but I take your point. The leaves are alright.
In general, I have a feeling that we still struggle with finding the best paradigm for discussing these plants. It's good to think about this though.