Undergraduate textbook which provides an introduction to the general characteristics of a selection of important plant families. For each family, information on its distribution, classification, general features and economic importance precedes a detailed description of a typical representative species. For the larger or more varied families several representative species are included. The text is illustrated throughout with clear and accurate line diagrams and accompanied by an exhaustive glossary. To further aid the reader a section on basic botany is included.
Foreword by S. M. Walters
Systematic grouping of plants
Authorities
Signs and abbreviations
Floral formula
General botany
Part I. Plant Families
1. Ranunculaceae
2. Caryophyllaceae
3. Malvaceae
4. Salicaceae
5. Cruciferae
6. Ericaceae
7. Primulaceae
8. Rosaceae
9. Leguminaceae
10. Euphorbiaceae
11. Geraniaceae
12. Umbelliferae
13. Solanaceae
14. Boraginaceae
15. Labiatae
16. Scrophulariaceae
17. Campanulaceae
18. Caprifoliaceae
19. Compositae
20. Gramineae
21. Araceae
22. Liliaceae
23. Amaryllidaceae
24. Iridaceae
25. Orchidaceae
Comparative tables
References
Glossary
Index to families and genera
This excellent book is highly recommended for any serious students of botany, horticulture or related disciplines ... superb, concise text and bold, accurate illustrations.
- M. A. Ward, Field Studies
"... an excellent practical textbook ... invaluable for the army of young field botanists and gardeners trying to identify plants ... beautifully illustrated ... with diagrams always facing the text ... I believe this book will prove to be another 'success'."
- Stephen L. Jury, The Horticulturalist
"... an excellent introductory section to the basics of botany."
- David Tomlinson, New Scientist
"Most schools and colleges would value this book for reference as it contains much information not readily available elsewhere. Anyone interested in plants, even the enthusiastic amateur, would also find it helpful."
- Jenny Avery, Journal of Biological Education
"... strongly recommended."
- James H. Dickson, Common Families of Flowering Plants
"I am sure it will find its way onto the bookshelves of many botany students in the years to come."
- M. Watson, Edinburgh Journal of Botany