Native American ethnobotany /

Moerman offers a fantastic compilation of information about 4,029 species of plants used by 291 groups of North American Indians. The catalog of plants is an alphabetic sequence by genus followed by the family name; if a plant is nonflowering, an indication of its group is given, such as conifer, lichen, fern, etc. Following the generic name is a discussion of each species used. The scientific name with its author and a common name is given; following this, a discussion of usage is presented in a sequence of five categories: drugs, food, fiber, dye, others. In each of these categories are provided the names of the tribes, purposes, plant parts used, and bibliographical references. Following the extensive catalog are four pages of notes elaborating on certain usages mentioned in the catalog. Bibliography of 206 references; index of tribes listed under the five categories of use and plants used; index to uses; list of plant synonyms; index to common plant names. A valuable resource for the ethnobotanical graduate student, researcher, and professional. C. T. Mason Jr.; emeritus, University of Arizona