exsiccatus

An exsiccatus, plural exsiccati, is a published series of dried, preserved botanical specimens distributed to other institutions or individuals for study and reference. These collections are meticulously prepared, with each specimen typically mounted on a herbarium sheet and accompanied by a label detailing its scientific name, collector, date, and location of collection. The practice of distributing exsiccati became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as a way for botanists to share their findings and build comprehensive botanical records across geographical boundaries.

The creation of an exsiccatus involves carefully collecting plant material, pressing and drying it to preserve its structure and color, and then mounting it onto standardized sheets. The accompanying labels are crucial, providing essential data for taxonomic and ecological research. These labels often include information about the plant's habitat, associated species, and any notable characteristics. Exsiccati serve as valuable primary sources for botanical research, allowing scientists to examine original material, confirm identifications, and study plant diversity. They also play a role in understanding historical plant distributions and the evolution of taxonomic concepts. Many institutions and individual botanists have produced significant exsiccati series throughout history, contributing substantially to the global knowledge of plant life.