She is always to be blazoned argent, unless she be in her detriment, when sable is substituted. Like the sun, she is usually surrounded by rays (which, however, are straight), and has sometimes a human face depicted in the centre.
The Star, or Etoille (Fig. 134), is distinguished from the mullet in having its rays wavy, instead of straight.
Trees, Plants, and Flowers.
Of Trees, the Oak, Pine, Olive, and Palm are the most commonly blazoned in heraldry. A branch only frequently serves as a charge.
The following terms are applied to this class of charges:—
Eradicated: when the roots axe exposed.
Couped: when a branch is cut off evenly.
Slipped (not Erased): torn or broken off.
Blasted, or Starved: deprived of leaves.
Accrued: full-grown.
Fructed, Blossomed, or Seeded: bearing fruit, flowers, or seeds.
Pendent: drooping.
Trees are generally blazoned proper, or in their natural colours.
The Garb, or wheat-sheaf (Fig. 135) is borne by many noble families; amongst others, by the Earl of Hereford, who quarters in his coat, Az.; three garbs or.
The Fleur-de-lis (Fig. 136)is one of the most frequent and ancient of heraldic charges, and was
