The climbing palms that are collectively known as rattans are an important component of many tropical rainforests. Many are of great economic importance locally, and some of the species are used world-wide to make the familiar `cane' furniture and many other products. Unfortunately the nomenclature of rattans has been both confused and confusing. This book clarifies many of the problems and will be an invaluable guide for foresters, botanists and ecologists, as well as users of rattans.