Eicones Plantarum Seu Stirpivm is a monumental botanical work authored by Jacobus Theodorus (also known as Tabernaemontanus), first published in 1590 in Frankfurt by Nicolaus Bassaeus. This comprehensive volume is renowned for its extensive collection of over 2,200 woodcut illustrations depicting a vast array of plants, fruits, trees, and roots. Each illustration is accompanied by Latin and German captions, providing valuable insights into the flora of the time. The work is organized into three parts, systematically categorizing plants native to Germany and those introduced from foreign regions, thereby serving as a crucial resource for botanists and herbalists.​

The illustrations within Eicones Plantarum are notable for their accuracy and detail, reflecting the advanced botanical knowledge of the late 16th century. These woodcuts were instrumental in advancing the study of plant morphology and classification. The work’s comprehensive nature and the quality of its illustrations made it a valuable reference for contemporary and later herbalists, including John Gerard, who utilized these images in his own herbal publications.​

Beyond its artistic and scientific value, the book holds historical significance as a testament to the Renaissance’s burgeoning interest in natural history and the systematic study of plants. Its detailed depictions and classifications contributed to a more structured understanding of plant species, influencing botanical studies for generations. The inclusion of plants from various regions underscores the era’s expanding exploration and exchange of botanical knowledge across Europe.​

Eicones Plantarum Seu Stirpivm is celebrated not only for its botanical insights but also for its artistic achievements. The woodcuts continue to be admired for their precision and aesthetic quality, reflecting the skill of the engravers and the scientific curiosity of the time. As a historical document, it offers a window into the Renaissance’s approach to science and art, highlighting the period’s commitment to documenting and understanding the natural world.