Fine Solenites Oligocene Flower Fossil

Description: This is a fine flower from an Oligocene plant known as Solenites. The species is a member of the Solenaceae, a family of flowering plants that includes several important agricultural crops such as the bell pepper, potato, tomato, and eggplant. The family also includes such plants as nightshade and tobacco, so while some can feed, others can kill. It is thought that the name comes from the perceived resemblance of the flower to the sun and its rays, much like this one seen here.