18th Century Perverts

(Edvard Koinberg, Herbarium Amoris)

Flowers are nothing other than the breeding organs of plants, yet with that difference from those of animals, which we regard as so foul that witnessing them awakens shame, so that, in animals, nature has in most cases found a way to cover them up.

On the other hand, in the plant kingdom these parts are not hidden but instead firmly exhibited for all to see, Oh, yes! These are, above all the other parts of plants, those which are most delectable and most delightful, warmly attracting our desires, appreciation and viewing. 

Just as the sexual organs of animals smell and are odorous during lust, so do the breeding organs of plant also give off a vapour, which in each and every sort is different but which is so delightful, and for some so refreshing that they feel they are drinking the sweetest nectar through their nose. 

-Carl Linnaeus