This flower, says the elegant author of the Flora Domestica, derives its name from an idea, that all the instruments of Christ’s passion are represented in it.
The above [engraving] from an ancient print, shows the curious distortion of the flower in those parts whereon the imagination has indulged. The original print bears an inscription to this effect; that nature itself grieves at the crucifixion, as is denoted by the flower representing the five wounds, and the column or pillar of scourging, besides the three nails, the crown of thorns, &c.
Most of the passion-flowers are natives of the hottest parts of America. The rose coloured passion-flower is a native of Virginia, and is the species which was first known in Europe. It has since been, in a great measure, superseded by the blue passion-flower, which is hardy enough to flower in the open air, and makes an elegant tapestry for an unsightly wall. The leaves of this, in the autumn, are of the most brilliant crimson; and, when the sun is shining upon them, seem to transport one to the gardens of Pluto.[165]
[165] Flora Domestica.
June 9.
Sts. Primus and Felicianus, A. D. 286. St. Columba, or Columkille, A. D. 597. St. Pelagia, A. D. 311. St. Vincent, 3d Cent. St. Richard, Bp. of Andria, 5th Cent.
Chronology.
1760. Nicholas Lewes, count Zinzendorf, a native of Saxony, and founder of the religious society called Moravians, died at Chelsea.