Hortus Indicus Malabaricus, often referred to as simply Malabar Hortic, is a botanical encyclopedia that serves as a comprehensive reference for the flora of the Malabar region of India. Originally written in Latin by Hendrik van Rheede, a Dutch commander in the colonial Dutch East India Company, this significant work was published between 1678 and 1693.
This monumental tome consists of twelve volumes filled with detailed descriptions and illustrations of over 740 plant species discovered in the Malabar region, which includes present-day Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka states. It covers a wide range of plant families, including medicinal plants, ornamental plants, and rare species.
Hortus Indicus Malabaricus played a crucial role in documenting and cataloging the rich biodiversity of the Indian subcontinent during the late 17th century. Its detailed descriptions, notes on Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda), and intricate illustrations made it an invaluable source of botanical knowledge for both local and international scholars, herbalists, and scientists.
The illustrations in Hortus Indicus Malabaricus were drawn by Indigenous artists under the supervision of van Rheede and are highly regarded for their accuracy and meticulousness. These illustrations capture the distinctive features of each plant, depicting their leaves, flowers, roots, and fruits in intricate detail.
Even today, Hortus Indicus Malabaricus remains a valuable resource for researchers interested in Indian plant species and the historical aspects of botany. It continues to be a testament to the rich botanical heritage of the Malabar region and serves as a bridge between traditional Indian botanical knowledge and modern scientific research.
