The Ways and Wonders of South African Trees

About this book

A celebration of the rich diversity and beauty of indigenous trees, The Ways and Wonders of South African Trees uncovers the fascinating world of trees and how they function. Presented in two parts, the first explores the physiology and behaviour of trees and the second the grandeur of a select number of species, richly supported by photographs.

A comprehensive introduction focuses on the complex life of trees, uncovering how they grow, compete for water, defend themselves and make use of photosynthesis to survive; their role in pollination; and the symbiotic relationships they have with each other and other species. Record-breakers such as the oldest, tallest and biggest trees are also featured.

The second half of the book showcases some 160 conspicuous species, including the iconic baobab, sausage tree and mopane tree, as well as lesser-known but interesting trees such as baboon's breakfast. These accounts describe their unique traits and their different parts and discusses how they are used by animals and birds, and by humans.

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Biography

Willem Frost is a game rancher, writer and amateur dendrologist with a strong commitment to conservation through sustainable use. He has spent decades in the African bush exploring, studying and photographing the contintent's fauna and flora. He now lives in South Africa's bushveld region in the northern province of Limpopo. He has published a number of magazine articles on conservation. His previous book, The Antelope of Africa, tells the story of Africa's antelope in a fast-changing world.