Petri Andreae Matthioli’s Commentarii in libros sex Pedacii Dioscoridis Anazarbei de medica materia, first published in 1554, is a seminal work in the history of botany and pharmacology. Serving as a comprehensive commentary on Dioscorides’ ancient text De Materia Medica, Matthioli’s edition aimed to make the classical knowledge of medicinal plants accessible to contemporary scholars and practitioners. His work was not merely a translation but an extensive augmentation, incorporating his own observations, additional plant species, and a wealth of illustrations. The 1565 edition, in particular, is renowned for its detailed woodcut illustrations, many of which were created by artists Giorgio Liberale and Wolfgang Meyerpeck. These illustrations served as a vital tool for identifying plants, bridging the gap between ancient texts and Renaissance botanical knowledge.​

Matthioli’s contributions extended beyond the mere cataloging of plants. He introduced new species to the European botanical lexicon, some of which were previously unknown in the classical texts. His work reflected a shift from viewing plants solely through a medicinal lens to appreciating them as subjects of scientific study in their own right. This perspective laid the groundwork for modern botany, emphasizing observation and classification. Notably, Matthioli’s inclusion of fungi illustrations in the 1560 edition marked a significant advancement in mycological studies, providing some of the earliest identifiable depictions of mushrooms.​

The impact of Matthioli’s Commentarii was profound and enduring. The work was widely disseminated across Europe, with editions in Italian, Latin, Czech, German, and French. Its accessibility and comprehensive nature made it a cornerstone reference for herbalists, physicians, and botanists of the time. The detailed illustrations and annotations facilitated the identification and understanding of plants, bridging the gap between ancient knowledge and contemporary scientific inquiry. Matthioli’s integration of new species and his methodical approach to botanical classification contributed significantly to the evolution of botanical science.​

Matthioli’s Commentarii stands as a monumental work that not only preserved ancient botanical knowledge but also enriched it with contemporary insights. His meticulous documentation and innovative additions transformed the study of plants from a theoretical endeavor into a practical and empirical science. The legacy of his work continues to influence botanical studies, underscoring the enduring value of integrating historical wisdom with modern scientific inquiry.​