The Invention Promotion Company of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, has patented a flower garden that func- tions as a clock -a modem version of an idea cooked up by Linnaeus, the 18th-century Swedish botanist and father of taxonomy. The flowers of catnip open between 6 am and 7 am, orange hawkweed follows between 7 am and 8 am, field marigolds open up at 9 am, and vari- eties of Helichrysum wake up at 10 am. Other varieties follow, with Convolvulus opening at noon. The inventors do not claim that their colourful timepieces will challenge a digital watch for accuracy.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.