Customer Reviews

Alaska Trees and Shrubs (Agriculture handbook, No. 410)

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book contains a tremendous amount of information. Most of this book comprises detailed descriptions of each tree and shrub that grows in Alaska. Each write-up includes a physical description of the plant (including description of various seasonal forms), description of uses of the plant by humans and wild animals, description of the plant's range (which is illustrated on a range map for each taxon); and the names of closely-related plants. And every write-up is accompanied by an excellent, detailed black-and-white illustration of parts of the plant (most are drawn actual size). Given all of this information, I had no trouble identifying most of the trees and shrubs that I have encountered in Alaska. And I am no botanist.

Includes an introduction generally describing the vegetation zones of Alaska, and a key to identifying trees based mainly upon characteristics of their leaves. This reference is still cited in the academic literature today; and although it lacks color photographs (and plants are organized taxonomically rather than by color or other feature) I believe it would be an excellent reference for the non-expert who is interested in learning about the trees and shrubs of the arctic and sub-arctic Alaskan environments. Highly recommended!

This book is the only one generally available on the topic and it is, in general, an excellent book. It does a very good job of being accessable to non-experts and yet provides enough detail for serious botanists. The major criticism is that the map published with the original printing is no longer available. It is unfortunate, because it would have been an excellent resource. Another criticism is the very small maps for ranges of various plants. Aside from these points it is a good general guide. Of the many keys I have used in many different texts, the ones here are unique, combining a blend of taxonimic and non-taxonomic characteristics to make them useful and easy to follow. I was very impressed with the key for willows, which many books have a very difficult time with. The winter and summer keys were also helpful for many species. The black and white drawings are excellent and numerous. It packs a lot of information in a very small book.

This has been the BEST plant, tree, and brush/shrub identification book I've found yet! Although it doesn't have "flowers" or "berries" in the title, flowers and berries are in there (well, if they're a shrub, like wild roses, but not like irises or chocolate lillies)...Black and white sketches with a few color photographs, AK state map of distribution, some historical notes, and, sometimes, common uses are listed (although I haven't seen any medicinal uses). Vegetations grouped by family. Detailed description of the plant from the leaf to bark to twigs to flower to berry (if applicable) to wood (if applicable)...detailed enough to differentiate between two closely related species. Great reference book!

This book contains a large amount of information about the trees and shrubs that grow in Alaska. I particularly appreciated the differentiating data and illustration of different seasonal forms. This book allowed me to accurately identify the trees and shrubs on my property, as well as basic information about my soil and subsoil based on the condition and density of these plants with the habitat information provided in this book. An invaluable resource for anyone living in the woods of Alaska!

The second updated edition of a definitive work on the woody plants of Alaska updates an edition that has been the standard on the topic for over three decades. Any collection specializing in Alaska botany must have this: it completely revises information and provides updates on habitat and taxonomy plus offers a centerfold of color photos in addition to the black and white drawings throughout. Descriptions of leaves, twigs, bark, wood appearance, flowers, habitat and distribution make for invaluable study and reference.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch