Description
Many books are written about trees, but few give a complete picture. What do they look like? Where do they come from? How do they grow? What are their uses for man, animals, birds and insects? How have their names changed over time? South African Flowering Trees - a botanical adventure through history acknowledges the many brave and resourceful early plant collectors and explorers, whose intense interest has contributed to what we know today. The histories in this volume refer primarily to the written record, but wherever possible tribal knowledge of trees - passed on by word of mouth - is included, specifically uses for food, fuel, protection, medicine and magic. This book owes its origin to the vision of the late Millicent Frean, a botanist who, in retirement, channelled her formidable energies into botanical art. Sandie Burrows is a qualified horticulturalist and field botanist who has illustrated numerous books, scientific papers, university theses and information brochures. The author, Rob Wood, is a retired banker with a lifelong interest in botany and horticulture, who is now involved with botanical history and bibliography. South African Flowering Trees - a botanical adventure through history will excite anyone interested in South Africa's natural heritage, whether they're botanists, dendrologists, art lovers, Africana enthusiasts, historians, natural historians - or simply curious about their environment. A selection of 25 indigenous South African trees. Full colour plate illustrations with detailed line drawings; A history of these South African trees from earliest written and oral records; Descriptions of seasonal variations; Structure, nomenclature, history and practical uses; Accessible popular terminology.
