The flora of Africa being now comparatively well known, the author of the present work considered the time opportune to present to the public an analytical key for determining in an easy way the generic name of every phanerogamous plant growing wild, whether indigenous or naturalized, or cultivated upon a large scale within the geographical limits of Africa including the islands. The names and limits of the genera and families adopted in this work are those accepted in ENGLER & PRANTL’S “D...

In "The Flowering Plants of Africa," Franz Thonner meticulously catalogs the rich diversity of Africa's flora, presenting a comprehensive study that spans various ecosystems and climates across the continent. Thonner's literary style is both erudite and accessible, employing vivid descriptions supported by detailed illustrations that enhance the reader's understanding of each species. This work not only serves as a botanical guide but also situates flowering plants within the broader conte...

The Japanese and Chinese have been creating bonsai trees for centuries and it is now an internationally popular pastime. This compact and stylish guide will provide everything you need to know to grow bonsai successfully, including shaping with wires, watering, seasonal maintenance, tackling common ailments, choosing the right container, feeding and repotting. A directory of over 90 of the most popular species, illustrated with beautiful photographs, will enable you to find the tree that i...

The Art and Practise of Bonsai conjures an aura of mystery and wonder that draws many first-time enthusiasts to it.Until the 1990s and the onset of the Internet, bonsai enthusiasts were few and far between. Information was very scarce and only available in a handful books written by Western 'Bonsai Masters' who had worked in isolation for many years. There was a lot of trial and error on the part of both these 'Masters' and enthusiasts.This trial and error period didn't nec...

A home grower's guide to growing orchid favorites at home.  Contains 16 original photos. 

An essential guide to every species of tree found in the British Isles – outside of arboretumsThis easy-to-use guide covers the 360 species of tree that are found in Britain & Ireland. Each species is covered in detail with information on how to identify, whether from a leaf, twig, bark or whole tree, plus extra information on where the tree grows (including a map), how high they grow, what uses it is put to and history.Every species is also comprehensively illustrated with...

Cacti and succulents are ideal houseplants, needing little care and providing unusual and colourful displays. This book looks at the increasingly wide variety of plants now available, and assists the beginner to choose and cultivate man;, of the popular types. Full details are given on feeding, watering, potting and on displaying the collection to its best advantage. An A-Z listing of over 75 varieties shows the wide diversity of shapes, sizes and effects that can be grown. The essential g...

"Profiles 600 of the most stunning, most wonderfully adapted beetles around . . . The result is a work that is nothing short of magnificent." — WiredWhen renowned British geneticist J. B. S. Haldane was asked what could be inferred about God from a study of his works, Haldane replied, "An inordinate fondness for beetles." With 350,000 known species, and scientific estimates that millions more have yet to be identified, their abundance is indisputable as is ...

It's Never Been Easier to Grow Orchids at HomeHave you heard that orchids are impossible to cultivate? Do you love orchids' exotic flowers but despair of ever having one survive in your home? Thing again! With simple instructions and straightforward advice from professional orchid grower Mary Carol Frier, you'll find that orchids can thrive on your home windowsill, rewarding you year after year with gorgeous blooms.What makes an orchid "easy care"? The six orchids featured in...

Essential for all gardeners, horticulturists, teachers, students and naturalists, this is a practical guide to dealing with the pests, diseases and disorders that commonly affect fruit, vegetables, trees and ornamental garden plants.A revision of the highly acclaimed Collins Guide to Pests, Diseases and Disorders first published in 1981, the book now features completely updated text, the addition of several new pests and diseases that have become a threat in the last decade.

With easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, veteran horticulture teacher Miranda Smith provides a complete reference showing every step for cultivating new plants—whether from seed or cuttings or with techniques such as layering, grafting, and budding.Propagating new plants from existing ones is not only sustainable but also rewarding for gardeners of all skill levels. The Plant Propagator’s Bible offers a solid and complete, go-to ref...

Ideal for hikers, foragers, and naturalists, the Timber Press Field Guides are the perfect tools for loving where you live.Mushrooms of the Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada is a comprehensive field guide to the most conspicuous, distinctive, and ecologically important mushrooms found in the region. This useful guide features introductory chapters on the basics of mushroom structure, life cycles, and habitats. Profiles include color photographs...