Stamps of Liechtenstein: Bog Flowers (2014)

In its most recent stamp issue, Philately continues the popular definitive stamp series with flower motifs. The self-adhesive stamps designed by Stefan Erne depict three indigenous bog flowers: the Siberian sword lily (value: CHF 1.00), the Marsh Grass-of-Parnassus (value: 2.80) and the bog-bean, or buckbean (value: CHF 3.60). Although the Siberian sword lily (lat: Iris sibirica) is in steady decline, it can still be found in Liechtenstein in marshlands and shallow swamps. This light-loving plant with its large violet-blue blossoms bedecks large areas of the Ruggeller Riet in the months of May and June. This Iridaceae, also known under its synonym Blue Flag, grows to a height of 40 to 80 centimetres and, in contrast to other conspecifics, does not have sword-shaped but rather slender grass-like leaves. The new stamp is also Liechtenstein’s contribution to this year’s joint issue of SEPAC. In this organisation, 14 small European postal administrations have joined forces and regularly issue stamps on common themes. The Marsh Grass-of-Parnassus (lat: Parnassia palustris), also called Student’s Rose, thrives in the marshlands from the valleys up to the mountainous regions. In Central Europe it is the sole representative of its plant family, the Parnassiaceae. Its white petals are threaded with colourless longitudinal veins; its edge is generally smooth. In earlier times the plant was used among other things as a remedy for heart palpitations. The buckbean or bog-bean (lat: Menyanthes trifoliate) is still used, especially as an appetite stimulant and digestion aid, which explains why it is a component of many ‘digestive’ bitters. There are only three places where this endangered gentian with its white, bearded petals can now be found in Liechtenstein. However, it has been successfully planted in several other places. The buckbean, or bog-bean, has a life span of up to 30 years.
Source: WOPA Stamps