Knapweed (Centaurée des Montagnes)
Knapweed (Centaurée des Montagnes)
This vintage herbarium page features a long, graceful specimen originally labeled Chrysanthemum des montagnes by the botanist who collected it. With its narrow, lance-shaped leaves and thistle-like bloom, the plant aligns with a mountain Centaurea—a wild knapweed commonly found along the stony paths and hillside meadows of Provence.
The handwritten French notes, aged paper, and delicate tape marks all reflect thoughtful study and the passage of time. This is a one-of-a-kind, original botanical—not a print—carefully preserved on its herbarium sheet just as it was found.
With its sculptural stem and elegant silhouette, this piece stands beautifully on its own or as part of a curated wall of botanicals from the Herbier de Provence collection. Its presence brings a quiet sense of history, discovery, and the natural charm of the French countryside.
Details
• Vintage original herbarium specimen
• Identified as Centaurea (Knapweed)
• Includes original handwritten French notes
• Naturally aged paper with botanical imperfections
• One-of-a-kind piece
• Unframed
• Handle with care; dried botanicals are fragile
This herbarium sheet measures approximately 9.5 W x 12 L
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Special Notes
Special Notes
- One-of-a-kind
- Original dried plant
- Fragile nature
- Variations in paper aging
- Original tape and handwriting preserved
Please Note: Frame not included.
Framing & Care
Framing & Care
Your vintage herbarium pages are delicate pieces of natural history. Framing them thoughtfully will help preserve their beauty while allowing their age and character to shine.
Click HERE for a gentle guide.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are these original botanicals or reproductions?
Each piece in the Herbier de Provence collection is an original, vintage herbarium specimen. These are not prints or reproductions. The plants were gathered, pressed, annotated, and mounted decades ago and are preserved exactly as they were originally assembled.
Where do these herbarium specimens come from?
The Herbier de Provence collection is sourced from Gabi’s part-time home in Provence, in the south of France. The pieces reflect the region’s long tradition of botanical study and the landscape that continues to shape her work today.
Each herbarium sheet originates from historical botanical collecting practices common to the area, where plants were gathered, pressed, labeled, and preserved for study. These vintage specimens are now carefully stewarded as both scientific records and quiet works of natural history.
This regional connection is central to the collection—linking place, season, and material in a way that feels both personal and enduring.
What is the condition of these specimens?
These botanicals are preserved in their original, vintage condition. Gentle imperfections—such as fading, spotting, tape marks, or irregular edges—are part of their history and character. These signs of age are not flaws, but evidence of time, study, and care.
Are the pieces framed?
No. All herbarium sheets are sold unframed, allowing collectors to choose framing that suits their space and preservation preferences.
How should I care for my herbarium piece?
Dried botanicals are fragile. Handle with care and avoid excessive handling. For longevity, display away from direct sunlight, moisture, and humidity. Framing behind UV-protective glass is recommended for long-term preservation.
Are these pieces one-of-a-kind?
Yes. Each herbarium sheet is one-of-a-kind. Once a piece is collected, it will not be restocked or replicated.
Do you offer guidance on framing or display?
While framing services are not currently offered, general guidance is always available. You’re welcome to reach out with questions about display, grouping, or care.
A gentle framing guide can be found HERE.
Is this collection ongoing?
The Herbier de Provence collection is added to slowly, as pieces become available. Availability is limited and reflects the nature of vintage botanical preservation.