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Pinus (Pinaceae) (Flora Neotropica Monograph 75)

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This is one of the few books that exist on Mexican and Central American pine trees, and it is very important considering that this region is the second center of diversification of the genus. Besides the descriptions of the species, it includes morphology, taxonomy and biogeography aspects that make this book very complete and interesting for anybody studying the evolution of conifers and specially of pines.

Mexico, alas, is a country with a fabulously rich botanical heritage but little English-language literature to assist the visiting plant-lover. Among other things, Mexico has more different species of pines than any other nation; it is what botanists call a "center of diversity" for the pines. If you wish to travel there and see these trees, there are two indispensable books; oddly enough, both are in English. One is this text, a beautifully illustrated volume packed with very up-to-date information on the identification of species, their range and habitats, their genetic relationships, and their ecology. As botanical texts go, this one is a bargain, as well. The other book you should seek is Jesse Perry's "Pines of Mexico and Central America," which contains invaluable information on precisely where to find each of these often rare species.