Botanical Art by Laura Watson

  Bearberry by Laura Watson Common Name: Bearberry Scientific Name: Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (pronounced Ark-toh-STAF-ih-los OO-vah-UR-see ) Family: Ericaceae ( Heath family ) Habitat: Dry, open slopes, rocky outcrops, coastal bluffs, and pine forests Bloom Time: Spring Range: Widespread across Canada and the northern United States A Groundcover of Strength and Beauty Bearberry is one of those quiet plants that often goes unnoticed — a resilient, low-growing evergreen that carpets rocky slopes and dry hillsides across the Pacific Northwest . It thrives where little else will, spreading in glossy green mats that hold the soil together and provide shelter for mosses, lichens, and insects. Here on Vancouver Island , I often find Bearberry growing behind my home in Harewood Plains , weaving through the sun-baked rocks and thin soil alongside native stonecrops and kinnikinnick moss . It’s a place where spring wildflowers appear in vibrant bursts — and Bearberry, with i...

Plant I.D. image by Laura Watson If you've ever looked at scientific plant names , you might have noticed a pattern—most plant family names end in "-aceae" (like Orchidaceae for orchids or Rosaceae for roses ). But why is that? A Rule of Botanical Naming The "-aceae" ending comes from the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants (ICN) , the system that regulates how plants are scientifically named. This suffix helps standardize plant classification and makes it easier for botanists to group related species. How Are Family Names Created? Plant family names are typically based on the name of a key genus within that family. For example: Rosaceae comes from Rosa (roses) Orchidaceae comes from Orchis (a type of orchid) This method ensures a logical connection between plant names and their broader family groupings. A Few Exceptions Before the "-aceae" rule was enforced, some families had different names, like Com...

  Rattlesnake Plantain , Ink & Watercolour by Laura Watson Rattlesnake Plantain illustrations, watercolor, Laura Watson, 2025 Discovering the Beauty of  Goodyera oblongifolia : The Western Rattlesnake Plantain Goodyera oblongifolia,  commonly known as the Western Rattlesnake Plantain, is a captivating native orchid found in the forests of British Columbia and beyond. This fascinating plant has inspired both my curiosity as a naturalist and my creativity as a botanical artist. In this article, I’ll share some intriguing facts about this orchid, its habitat, and my personal connection to it—all complemented by my watercolour illustrations. A Closer Look at  Goodyera oblongifolia Despite its common name, the Western Rattlesnake Plantain isn’t related to plantains at all. Instead, it belongs to the orchid family , a detail that surprised me when I first learned about it. The "plantain" in its name refers to the resemblance between its patterned leaves and the introd...

Leaves are fascinating structures essential to plant life, and understanding their morphology (external structures) helps botanical artists and nature enthusiasts observe them more closely. Using the Gary oak (Quercus garryana) leaf as an example, let's break down the key parts of a leaf and their functions. 1. Apex The apex is the tip of the leaf, where the leaf tapers off. In the Gary oak, the apex is usually rounded and smooth, contributing to the overall broad, lobed appearance of the leaf.

Liard Hot Springs Marsh Botanicals , by Laura Watson, 2024 Introduction Nestled in the rugged wilderness of northern British Columbia, Liard Hot Springs is one of Canada’s natural treasures. Known for its soothing, mineral-rich waters , the springs have long been a destination for travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. But beyond the springs themselves lies an equally fascinating world: the marshes that surround them. These marshes, shaped by the unique microclimate of the hot springs, are home to a rich diversity of plant life, making them an essential part of the local ecosystem. Liard Hot Springs  Unlike other wetlands, the marshes around Liard Hot Springs are influenced by the warmth and mineral content of the water, creating conditions that allow a variety of specialized plants to thrive. In this article, we will explore the unique characteristics of these marshes, their relationship with the surrounding boreal forest , and the remarkable plants that call this ecosyst...

In this post, I share a list of terminologies that pertain to botanical painting. Some terms are more related to painting and watercolours while others are more botany-focused. Botanical art is the combination of art and science, that is one of the reasons it is so appealing to me. This post is meant to be ongoing, and I will continue to add to it.

Photo: iStock by Getty Images,  License details , Creator: bauhaus1000 Introduction Botany is a fascinating field that combines the beauty of nature with the rigor of science. For botanical artists, understanding the fundamentals of botany is essential to creating accurate and captivating artwork. This guide will introduce you to the basics of botany, tailored specifically for artists, and show you how this knowledge can enhance your illustrations. What is Botany?  Botany is the scientific study of plants, algae, and fungi. It covers everything from plant anatomy and physiology to taxonomy and ecology. For botanical artists, botany is more than just a science—it's a way to deepen your connection with the plants you illustrate. Knowing the structure, function, and classification of plants can transform your art from simply beautiful to scientifically accurate and educational. The history of botany is closely linked with botanical illustration. Artists like Maria Sibyll...

Curtis's botanical magazine, Public Domain   Introduction Botanical illustration, a captivating blend of art and science, has been an essential tool for botanists, herbalists, and artists for centuries. This intricate form of art captures the beauty and complexity of plant life with precision and detail, providing valuable insights into the natural world. From ancient manuscripts to modern digital renderings, botanical illustration has played a crucial role in the study and appreciation of plants. Erythronium dens-canis (true dog's tooth) by Maria Sibylla Merian What is Botanical Illustration and Why is it Important? Botanical illustration is the practice of depicting plant species with scientific accuracy and artistic finesse. Unlike botanical art, which may prioritize aesthetics, botanical illustration focuses on creating detailed and precise representations of plants. This discipline is vital for several reasons: 1. Plant Identification and Classification: Accurate illustrat...