This is primarily a gardener''s handbook, rather than a field guide for the identification of
flowers in the wild. Its primary purpose is to encourage the cultivation of various native
plants and species of wildflowers in the
garden, in a more or less naturalistic setting. There are 100 different
entries, under the most common of the common names for these plants, although several related species are discussed in many of the entries.
After the Introduction, where the author explains the genesis and purpose of this book, there follow the entries for the specific kinds of wildflowers. In the back of the book, there is a list of sources for wildflower seeds and plants. Finally, there is an Index of plants by both their common names and their Latin designations, as well as other things and people mentioned in the book. There is a section of black-and-while photographs in the center of the book.
Each entry in the book has a black-and-white drawing of the
Plant, usually in bloom -- some have seeds or berries shown as well. The most common name is given (in large type); the type of plant it is; its Family, Genus and Species names (in Latin); its origin, uses, habit of growth, flowers, foliage, assets, faults, culture, and a description of various species of this sort of flower, where applicable.
This is a beautiful, and well as a handy and handsome, little reference book. The drawings of the plants alone are worth the price of the book. Although the author disclaims its use as a field manual for identification of wild plants, it does make that easier. It is extremely handy for those wishing to help save wild plants from extinction. It is also a joy to read.