Although this outstanding horticultural work is just appearing in Canada and the U.S., it was published previously in Great Britain in 1999.
The approximately 1,000 annuals, biennials, and short-lived perennials found in Annuals and Biennials reside primarily in temperate to tropical zones throughout the world. Plants are grouped by families. The decidedly
British tone and references to the Royal Horticultural Society in no way alter the universal scope or content of the btitle, which features small type and large, clear photographic layouts.
That this books is geared for the more sophisticated gardener is evidenced by the practice of listing all plants by by their Latin scientific names (genus and habitat) with occasional use of common names. Country of origin, natural habitat, physical characteristics, and leaf and petal measurements (in metrics) are given for every entry. Photographs have scientific labels. Sketchy but adequate propagation information appears. Horticultural associations, specific gardens to visit, hardiness zone charts, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index complete thevolume.
Though novices seeking detailed planting and care instructions need more basic guides, experienced
horticulturalists will welcome this guide. Where the earlier British edition is owned, the new one need not be purchased. Otherwise, it will be an important addition, especially where detailed scientific flora encyclopedias are needed. RBB
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Review
Detailed information for gardeners, botanists, landscape designers and flower lovers whether beginners or specialists everywhere. (Joanne S. Carpender
National Gardeners Magazine 20020601)
The [book's] strengths ... include the large number of plants it covers, the outstanding photographs, and country of origin information. (January Adams
American Reference Book Annual 2003)
Indispensable. (Verlyn Klinkenborg
New York Times Book Review 20020602)
Vivid photographs ... replete with useful information. (Sibila Piers
Toronto Metro Today 20020423)
Fascinating to thumb through ... more than 1,000 photographs ... minute details on cultivation, propagation and plant origins. (
Edmonton Journal 20020421)
Serious gardeners and botanists will delight in this ... Excellent reference tools. (Michelle J. Mills
San Gabriel Valley Tribune 20020615)
Can teach you something about a lot of plants and is still relatively portable, you can't do better than these. (Patricia Jones
Plants and Gardens News [Brooklyn Botanic Garden] 20020601)
Numerous superb photographs, many showing plants in their wild habitat. Close-up shots differentiate species and varieties. (
American Herb Association Quarterly 20020101)
An important addition, especially where detailed scientific flora encyclopedias are needed. (
Booklist 20020801)
