Description
Book SynopsisWalk into any nursery, florist, or supermarket, and you’ll encounter displays of dozens of gorgeous flowers, from chrysanthemums to orchids. At one time these fanciful blooms were the rare trophies of the rich and influential—even the carnation, today thought of as one of the humblest cut flowers.
Trade Review“A well-researched volume for those who are deeply interested in the history of plant breeding and past plant breeders, the development of horticulture as a profession, and the flowers featured.” * Library Journal *
“In this volume, Taylor succeeds once again in bringing the stories of diligent flower breeders of the past to the gardeners who benefit from their efforts today.” * The American Gardener *
“We are grateful to authors, such as Judith Taylor, who continue to search archives, historical societies and publications and interview family members to unearth information about, and bring attention to, those figures in the plant sciences whose accomplishments have been buried with time. As the author writes in her endnote, ‘the knowledge increases the pleasure’ of these plants.” * Huntia: A Journal of Botanical History *
“After reading Taylor, I will embark with new eyes on the glorious weeks which are now beginning, the season of lilacs and rhododendrons, lupins, delphiniums, roses and sweet peas.”
“Judith M. Taylor brings to life the ‘creators’ of these ornamental plants and many others in a way that will give you new appreciation for flowers of all kinds.”
“Although her anecdotes are blessedly breezy, her encyclopedia is exhaustive.”
