informative and massive compendium
This book has so many different types of plants, along with information on important topics that it is very effective educational material. It would be good for someone who doesn't have room for a lot of books but still needs wants a lot of different varieties to be covered as well as some knowledge of the general gardening practices necessary for plant survival and happiness.
All types of plant category in all zones are included in this book. It may not have every individual plant, but there is a large variety for sure. There are lots of currently popular selections included as well. About 90% of the plants I've looked up have been inside.
The front pages have diagrams of different plant parts such as the types of flowers according to petal arrangement, and leaves according to shape, seed head types, descriptions of some garden topics and other such types of information.
The back has an index which includes the information to find plants by scientific or common names, and a glossary where many gardening terms and topics are defined.
Every entry includes colored pictures of many of the different plants and cultivars and is accompanied by in depth sections covering information such as natural habitat, location, size of the different parts of the plant, petal description, dates of blossoming and ideal or suitable suggestions for placement of the plant.
Other varieties and cultivars are listed along with each genus and they can be quite extensive for some, such as the 26 pages covering different roses (rosa)
Along with the general information, the following topics are covered for each genus; cultivation, propagation and pests and disease.
A great amount of basic and advanced plant information is gathered together in this book. It is definitely a useful book to have. It provides enough facts about a particular plant to help decide if a particular selection is good for ?that spot? in your yard or garden as well as lots of different ideas for an assortment of plants that might work for your yard, home and garden.
Perfect for every gardener, an easy read and highly recommended.