Review by Choice Review
Anyone choosing a tree or shrub for lawn or garden will want to consult this encyclopedia. It describes in detail some 8,500 plants around the world, illustrating most with photographs. Plant descriptions tell whether a tree or shrub can survive in a particular region of the country, whether it bears fruit or flowers, how large it can get when it matures, and how it should be planted and pruned. Entries are arranged in alphabetical order by genus then species, and the index makes it easy to find a plant by either its scientific or common name. An excellent introductory chapter discusses the geography and habitats of plants, their structure and function, and the industrial products derived from them. A chapter covers selecting, planting, pruning, and propagating plants, and another basic plant classification. One- and two-page illustrated guides to leaf, flower, and fruit types are very helpful. This excellent book for gardeners will probably become the standard reference work on trees and shrubs. Comparable titles by Michael Dirr, Dirr's Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates (2002) and Dirr's Hardy Trees and Shrubs (1997), are comprehensive in coverage and illustrated with beautiful photographs. Because of the popularity of gardening, public libraries will want copies of all three titles, but academic libraries will need only one. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Public and undergraduate libraries; professional gardeners. R. G. Sabin Rice University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
