Darwin on orchids

Originally posted at ouhos.org, the now-discontinued blog of the OU History of Science Collections. Neither this post nor any of its content should be taken as an official communication of the University of Oklahoma.


Darwin@the Library info | Exhibit brochure (pdf)

After publishing the Origin of Species (1859), Darwin spent the remainder of his life exploring the ramifications of his theory of evolution by descent with modification. Darwin’s next work explored the immense degree of variation present in nature, using orchids as the prime example.

Charles Darwin, On the Various Contrivances by which British and Foreign Orchids are Fertilised by Insects (London, 1862); F800

A beautiful gilt inlaid depiction of an orchid adorns the cover.

Charles Darwin, On the Various Contrivances by which British and Foreign Orchids are Fertilised by Insects (London, 1862); F800

Darwin@the Library info | Exhibit brochure (pdf)

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