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Ericas or heaths, along with proteas and reeds, are one of the distinctive members of the Cape Floristic Region, a global diversity hotspot located at the southwestern tip of Africa. About 760 different kinds of ericas, mostly endemics, are found there, making it easily the most diverse group of plants in South Africa. Ericas of the Fynbos presents 170, or one quarter, of the species found in this unique floral kingdom, highlighting both the 'showy' large-flowered and less conspicuous smaller-flowered species. Each species, described in detail, is supported by information on distribution and flowering times. Additional features include boxes on subspecies, similar species and interesting facts. Exquisite full-colour photographs showcase the astonishing variety in shape, size and colour of the flowers. A lively introduction explores biology, pollination and distribution, and includes a systematic, illustrated guide to help make species easily identifiable. Packed with information, this user-friendly guide will appeal to all flower enthusiasts.
John Manning is an internationally acclaimed botanist at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). A prolific writer, illustrator and photographer, he has authored and co-authored numerous scientific papers, magazine articles and books, including popular field guides, on South Africa's flora. Among many honours, he received the Botanical Society of South Africa Marloth Medal (2005) and the University of KwaZulu-Natal Convocation Award for Outstanding Contribution to Science, Industry and Technology (2006).
Consultant Nick Helme runs Nick Helme Botanical Surveys, which undertakes botanical and ecological assessments throughout South Africa's Greater Cape Floristic Region and in countries further afield. He is the lead author of Cape Floristic Region assessments for the SANBI Red List of South African Plants. He has discovered more than 100 previously undescribed plant species.
