Search results for ""briza""

This photographic guide describes and illustrates more than 330 different species of commercially important flowers, foliages and potted flowers. The emphasis is on flowers that are commonly used in the cut flower industry and the book gives useful hints about the selection and handling of these flowers. The book includes: Detailed descriptions of more than 330 plant species and their close relatives. For each flower, the following information is given: description of the plant; geographical origin; historical overview; cultivation; cultivars; properties such as colours, scent and vase life; quality criteria (how to select for quality); and the proper care and handling of the flowers. More than 700 excellent full-colour photographs, showing the beauty, colour variation and diversity of the flowers. Important foliage plants and potted flowers are also included, making this a useful reference guide for florists, retailers and wholesalers. Introductory chapters on basic aspects such as cultivation methods, harvesting and shipping techniques, cultivar development, modern trends in marketing (including the role of colour in customer preferences) and perhaps most importantly, the basic principles of the selection, handling and use of flowers and foliage. Separate common name indexes to the most familiar and well-known cut flowers, foliages and potted flowers, a comprehensive index to all the scientific and common names mentioned in the text, a glossary explaining specialist terms and a list of references for further reading.

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Poisonous plants of South Africa is a guide to the most commonly occurring poisonous plants in South Africa. The title includes: Detailed species descriptions of 135 poisonous plants. Each entry includes the following information: a description of the plant, the type of toxin, the potential toxicity of the plant and its importance in human or livestock poisoning, the poisonous ingredients and their pharmacological effects. Distribution maps for poisonous plants that occur naturally in the wild. More than 450 full-colour photographs that will assist in the identification of poisonous plants and plant parts. Introductory chapters on human and animal poisoning in South Africa, first aid treatment, methods of testing for toxicity, extraction and isolation of toxins and poisonous principles and their effects. Plant lists according to class of toxin and type of livestock poisoning as well as a useful checklist of poisonous plants and a glossary of medical terms.

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The feast of flavours series is an illustrated series of cookery title that offers insights into the culinary traditions of countries all over the world. Each volume is a fascinating introduction to the exotic ingredients and unique culinary heritage of the region. It provides insights into the techniques of food preparation and the cooking styles used in the various kitchens. The recipes are accompanied by instructions and photographs, making it easy to recreate these dishes effortlessly in one's own kitchen. Feast of flavours from the South African Kitchen brings together a mouth-watering collection of recipes with a uniquely South African slant. The title includes recipes for hearty soups, vegetable dishes, seafood, chicken, beef, pork, venison, lamb and scrumptious desserts. The introduction contains an illustrated overview of cooking methods and ingredients as well as useful conversion tables for weights and measures.

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Guide to the properties and uses of Southern African Wood is a fully illustrated, scientifically accurate guide to the characteristics, properties and uses of wood from 140 Southern African tree species. Species treatments include information on conservation status, uses, mechanical properties, durability, identification features, woodworking properties and comments from wood users on workability. Photographs of tree bark, untreated and treated wood, end-grain macrographs, as well as worked items. Provides information on historical uses, where trees grow, availability and sustainability of the woods and the practicalities of harvesting and processing. Superior quality text and excellent reproduction and printing. The only commercially available book which focuses on the properties of Southern African wood, written in a style that will appeal to a wide audience: professional woodworkers, designers, architects, wood dealers and wood collectors, hobbyists, botanists and anyone interested in trees and wood. A must-have for all who love wood and trees!

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Since 1966 this concise list of southern African indigenous trees has been an indispensable companion for anybody interested in the diverse tree flora of the region. This fifth edition of the Pocket List has been updated to take into consideration recent advances in the classification and naming of trees. Included are 1 666 tree entries, most of these illustrated, covering all trees indigenous to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland and Lesotho. Indices of scientific names and synonyms, common names in several local languages, and standard tree numbers facilitate information retrieval. Updated distribution maps reflect the occurrence of the trees in the subcontinent, whilst symbols indicate their conservation status.

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This edition features seven additional tree species and a more accessible arrangement of trees according to their botanical name. More than 140 indigenous trees are discussed in detail with the following information provided for each tree: A detailed species description, diagnostic features, flowering and fruiting periods, natural distribution and habitat. The ecological role and utilisation by mammals, birds and insects. Economic value and use by people, including use in gardens and on the farm, as a source of food for humans and animals, fibre and medicine. Properties of the wood and its utilisation by people. Specific guidelines on propagation and cultivation of each species. A map indicating the distribution in South Africa. Swaziland and Lesotho is given for each species.

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South Africa has an inordinate wealth of plants and animals. It is a country of superlatives with an entire floral kingdom occurring within its borders. With a land surface area of only 2 per cent of the global landmass, it contains 10 per cent of the world's plants and between 6 and 7 per cent of the world's mammals, birds and reptiles. Not only does South Africa boast the greatest number of species of land tortoises of any place on Earth, it ranks fifth in the world with regard to overall number of reptile species. Such an array of reptiles, which at last count numbered 363 species, with more being described annually, shows an incredible range of adaptations enabling these remarkable creatures to live in extremes of climate from the high mountains to desert, from coast to coast and some even adapting to an urban environment. Despite this, the daily lives of most reptile species remain a closed book. Many species are cryptic, preferring not to be seen, while others display amongst the brightest colours in the animal kingdom. They range from very small species weighing less than a gram to the giant Nile crocodile, which may achieve a mass of 1 000 kg, and include some of the most poisonous species on the planet. It is indeed a treasure house. Remarkable Reptiles offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of snakes, lizards, chameleons, tortoises, terrapins and crocodiles and hopes to provide a greater insight into the behaviour of these often maligned animals. Many reptiles, especially snakes, receive unjust treatment because of attacks on humans, while anthropogenic causes, which are far more lethal, tend to be less emphasised. Hopefully this book will contribute to, and instil respect and interest in the remarkable diversity of reptiles with which South Africa has been blessed.

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The Field Guide to the Succulent Euphorbias of southern Africa by Alma Möller and Rolf Becker is a pioneer publication on euphorbias in southern Africa. It is a beautifully illustrated, full colour identification guide that makes it easy for the layperson as well as anybody interested in the flora of southern Africa to identify a particular species. The Guide contains:  Introductory chapters containing general information about the species characters, how to identify an euphorbia, growing euphorbias in cultivation, gardening with euphorbias, medicinal and other uses, herbaceous species and invaders.  Detailed descriptions of 224 species, including emphasis on distinguishing features, habitat, distribution maps, conservation status, scientific and known common names, as well as notes on similar species.  Similar looking species are grouped together in 18 species groups, based on easily recognisable morphological characters. Group 19 contains previously undescribed species, and Group 20 contains species of uncertain status.  More than 870 full-colour photographs and illustrations.  Taxonomic classification.  Glossary and index to scientific and common names.

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The new edition of this popular field guide has been fully revised and updated, making it one of the most comprehensive guides to the land mammals of the subregion. The new edition includes:An easy-to-use system to identify the mammals in the bookDetailed species descriptions, including information on the conservation status, size, food, life expectancy, enemies, habits, voice and breeding of more than 120 of the most common land mammals of southern AfricaMore than 200 excellent colour photographs of the male and female animalsPhotographs and illustrations of field signs, such as droppings and spoor, as well as distribution mapsA table illustrating the tracks (spoor) of all the animals featuredIllustrations showing the difference in size between each animal and a humanA brand-new section which includes examples from all the families of smaller mammals, such as shrews, elephant shrews, moles, mole rats, bats, rats and mice.The Mammal Guide of Southern Africa is a must for game watchers, hikers and anyone with a love for nature.

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Since ancient times, poisonous plants and mushrooms have been used for hunting, murder and magic. Most cultures of the world have learnt to avoid these plants or to use them with discretion. Many of the plants are still widely used as traditional medicine for their therapeutic value in the treatment of diseases. Others are popular as recreational drugs or for ceremonial and spiritual purposes. Hazardous plants are commonly used as garden ornamentals, pot plants or florist flowers, and many people are no longer aware of the inherent dangers posed by toxic plants or medicines derived from them. Also included in this illustrated guide are plants causing irritation and inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes. A special focus is on psychoactive plants which can have stimulant, sedative, hypnotic, narcotic or hallucinogenic properties, such as coca, opium, cannabis and scopolamine. This guide gives the reader a bird's eye view of all the famous and well-known poisonous and mind-altering plants of the world. The book is presented as a compact, colourful and scientifically accurate reference text. It covers more than 1200 of the most important plants that people are likely to be exposed to. More than 200 of the most important poisonous and mind-altering plants are treated in depth in short monographs, covering their diagnostic characters, region of origin and distribution, active ingredients, toxicity, symptoms of intoxication and possible modes of action. Each monograph provides information on first aid treatment. This guide is a must for gardeners, farmers, veterinarians, students, botanists, pharmacists, chemists, doctors and Poison Centres. The compact format and encyclopedic style will be useful to rapidly access information on poisonous plants.

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Plants and alien weeds of South Africa, this title became a guide for anyone interested in knowing how to recognise, understand and control troublesome plants. The title covers more than 500 species of problem plants in detail, with descriptive and interesting text, highlighting the origin and environmental impact of each species as well as methods of control. There are over 700 colour photographs to assist with identification and to illustrate the problematic nature of the plants. Up-to-date distribution maps show the range of each plant, while a series of icons offers an easy overview of the pest status of a plant and how it is covered by government regulations, herbicide registration and biological control. Introductory chapters explain aspects of undesirable vegetation such as bush encroachment and veld degradation, as well as chemical and biological control techniques and the threat posed by ornamental garden plants. An innovative 'identification key' helps even the non-botanist to find and identify a particular species.

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This traveller's guide provides information to both the overseas visitor and local tourist on the many eco-hotspots this diverse country has to offer. It contains: over 435 full-colour photographs, two maps showing major routes and biome regions, national parks, regional reserves and World Heritage Sites, contact details for making bookings. A must for all nature lovers and those interested in the eco-wonders of this country of ours.

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The exquisite charm, beauty and fragrance of orchids have fascinated people for many centuries, and will no doubt continue to do so for many more. Gone are the days when people believed that growing orchids is only for a select few rich gardeners. This title shows how orchids can be grown in an everyday garden. Learn how to treat your orchids (and most of them are not fussy at all!), how much water and shade they would need, what to feed them how to propagate your plants. Most species are discussed in detail, and the accompanying photographs will help you to identify the different kinds. Growing orchids is a fascinating, easy and extremely satisfying hobby. However, be warned when you buy your first orchid - with it comes an instant, life-long addiction.

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The worldwide trend towards smaller houses and spaces and apartment type homes has inspired and demanded a new approach in gardening. This is due predominantly to the freedom of expression in the styling and use of outdoor spaces, the approach to hard landscaping and the use of plant material most suited to the environment, house or garden design and style. The trend is to introduce hard landscaping and plant material natural to the local area, gravel as a substitute for lawn in small spaces, a sense of fun and the unexpected in the use of plants or accessories. This is what makes gardening a pleasure and one of the finest creative arts there is. The author horticulturist, shares his vast local and international experience and knowledge with his readers in this title on small gardens - from the initial design, the preparation, the hard landscaping elements, container gardening, water, maintenance, garden chores for every month of the year, food and herb gardening, to lists of plants suitable for smaller spaces. Breathtakingly beautiful photos not only illustrate the information, but are artworks in their own right providing a pool of inspirational ideas.

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This guide is for use in the field by botanists, nature lovers, eco-tourists, hikers and farmers, for on-the-spot identifications, making it unnecessary to collect specimens and in this way depleting the countryside of its beautiful natural heritage. Features of the title are: Full-colour illustrations and brief descriptions of 614 species of the most common flowering plants, succulents and shrublets found in the four northern provinces: Limpopo, North-West, Gauteng and Mpumalanga. For quick and easy identification plants are placed in eight major categories of flower colour, namely white/cream-coloured; pink, yellow/orange, blue, mauve/purple, red, brown and green flowers. Each plant family is briefly introduced, where possible giving characters to distinguish them from each other. English and Afrikaans vernacular names are included where appropriate. A botanical glossary make botanical terms more comprehensible to the lay person.

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From the majestic yellowwoods of the Knysna forests to the strange halfmens of the Karoo and the delicately beautiful flowering tree fuchsia and wild gardenias, trees are one of our most valuable national treasures. Trees not only provide us with food, fodder, building material and shelter to man and beast against the extremes of the weather, they bring beauty and joy to our parks and gardens. Remarkable trees gives the reader a glimpse into the world of trees - from the biggest to the tallest to the oldest trees in South Africa.

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The grass family, known as Poaceae, is probably the most important plant family on earth. Grasses were the first food plants to be cultivated by man. Grass crops, such as maize, wheat, rice and sugarcane are still our most important food source to farm animals and the large herds of grazing animals in the wild. The identification of grasses becomes important during land management as the various grass species differ in their grazing value and other ecological functions. Furthermore, weedy grasses react differently to different herbicides and therefore need to be correctly identified. This title, Guide to grasses of southern Africa, is the most comprehensive colour identification guide to the common grasses of southern Africa and includes, among others, the following features: descriptions and illustrations of the 320 most important grasses in southern Africa, an easy-to-use grass identification key, more than 1 000 excellent photographs in full colour, thirteen short, fully illustrated introductory chapters with general information on grasses, common names of grasses in indigenous languages, icons that enable the reader to obtain certain information at a glance.

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Indigenous Healing Plants is a fascinating compilation of the uses of more than 140 indigenous plants, from well-known garden favourites such as agapanthus and scented geraniums to lesser known plants like agt-dae-geneesbossie and ashwaganda. Margaret Roberts, in her inimitable style, shares the story of each plant’s history and its various uses – medicinal, in cooking, as natural insect repellents and deodorisers – along with tried-and-tested recipes, as well as brief notes on how to grow it in the garden. The plants are illustrated by Sandy’s full-colour photographs, alongside Margaret’s delicate line drawings. This fully updated and expanded edition of Indigenous Healing Plants, which was first published in 1995, now includes an additional 15 indigenous medicinal plants as well as a new section on naturalised weeds and foraged food plants. This book records traditional wisdom and practical information on the many uses of indigenous South African plants and will appeal to anyone interested in health, gardening, cooking and homecrafting. It also offers a historical perspective and botanical detail that will be of interest to students of Botany, Homeopathy and Medicine.

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Grow your own is a comprehensive guide providing practical guidelines that will teach you how to fully utilise your garden (large or small) by means of alternative as well as traditional growing methods. The recommendations aren't limited to the more ordinary plants, either. Grow any variation of vegetables, fruit, nuts or even herbs and spices. This guide is logically presented to discuss the respective plants along with brief, but thorough, guidelines detailing requirements for soil preparation, propagation, cultivation, harvest and storage. Enjoy additional tips about cultivating in containers, choosing the most suitable plants for different spaces, deterring pests, companion planting, and combatting diseases and other problems. A handy summary about each plant offers a quick reference with nifty textboxes that highlight other interesting facts about the plant species concerned, to gain some bonus insights.

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Agricultural production is under threat from both indigenous and alien weeds and our entire ecosystem is now being seriously threatened by these alien, invasive species. Awareness of these weeds, the regulations involved and possible control measures are now critical factors. Things change in time, more weeds appear and the scope of this edition is extended up into more central Africa.

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This easy tree guide is meant for people who would like to get to know the trees of the Garden Route, whether they are experienced botanists, or amateurs. Information about 110 trees. Listed in alphabetical order to their scientific names. Afrikaans and English common names as well as the South African tree number is listed below the scientific names. More than 1 800 photographs in full colour. A very visual, unique tree key makes identification easy. Identification aspects are all photo-illustrated. Distribution maps. Notes on usage of tree parts and interesting facts.

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The Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) of sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar have remained scientifically poorly known despite their critical importance in understanding the early evolutionary history of the family. This scientific review gives a bird's eye view of the morphological and anatomical diversity of the family in Africa and Madagascar. The book is aimed at helping botanists, ecologists and conservationists to identify the remarkable African members of the family. It will hopefully also inspire the younger generation of botanists to expand our knowledge of the family. It is likely that more exciting discoveries still await us. The book provides an introduction to the structural diversity in the family and gives the correct botanical terminology - especially for the interesting fruits (schizocarps) that are typical of the family. Descriptions and illustrations for all 77 genera and 368 known species are provided, as well as a key to the genera. Introductory chapters focus on habit (growth form) and roots, leaves, synflorescences, flowers, fruits, chromosome numbers, pollinators, chemistry, plant uses, and phylogenetic relationships of African Apiaceae. Includes a checklist of the Apiaceae of sub‐Saharan Africa and Madagascar as well as an extensive list of references.

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Creative gardening with indigenous plants, now in its second edition, is an invaluable handbook for South African gardeners. In this comprehensive guide the authors set out to popularise the use of indigenous South African plants in gardens, parks, on roadsides and anywhere where previously exotic plants were preferred. This book covers more than 300 plants, all illustrated by stunning photographs in full colour showing the whole plant as well as selected features such as flowers, fruit, leaves and bark. The text comprises a description of each plant, its usages - including medicinal uses and snippets of folklore - and advice on cultivation. Introductory chapters cover topics such as propagating plants from seeds and cuttings, gardening in the different climate regions, and using indigenous plants to attract birds and insects to the garden. Taking a very practical approach, using symbols, distribution maps, plant size and flower colour, the authors lead the reader to the correct plant to choose for the application, whether this be tree, shrub, annual, perennial, climber or water-loving plant. This all-inclusive book is a must for gardeners, horticulturists, landscape designers and anyone involved in the South African nursery industry.

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Over 2 000 years ago Hippocrates wrote: "Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food. Each one of the substances in a man's diet, acts upon his body and changes it in some way, and upon these changes his whole life depends, whether he be in health, in sickness or convalescent. To be sure, there can be little knowledge more necessary." Now, as never before, we have to really reconsider these wise words for in our modern fast-paced, stressed, over-wrought and fear-filled lives, we are not coping and we are not glowing with abundant health and well-being. With Healing foods, prolific author Margaret Roberts brings nature's pharmacy into our homes and into our lives. Step by step, and easily accessible, she showcases the superfoods and warns of the danger foods, and lists the ailments we suffer from, offering comforting natural ways of correcting and rebuilding our health and regaining our vitality. More than 150 common and lesser-known vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices and other food plants that are the building blocks of good health are described in full, covering aspects such as: the plant's history and origin; instructions on how to grow the plant; medicinal uses and major nutrients; ideas on how to include the plant in the diet, along with recipes; cosmetic and household uses and other interesting facts and hints. The book concludes with an extensive A-Z list of ailments, with information on which danger foods to avoid and which superfoods, supplements and other therapies to consider to bring relief for each of the more than 100 common ailments discussed. This book is essential reading for each of us in our quest for health and energy in an increasingly stress-filled world.

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Bird watching, especially by enthusiastic novices, is presently one of the fastest growing pastimes in the world. It offers healthy relaxation and exercise with the added benefit to enhance the bird watcher's knowledge about nature and to contribute to our scientific knowledge. The Lowveld of South Africa, which is home to arguably the most well-known and popular game reserve in the world, the Kruger National Park, is to a large extent still unspoilt and the peaceful home of its exceptionally rich birdlife. The Spotter's guide - Birds of the Lowveld, compiled by two of South Africa's most distinguished birders and in association with ornithologists, museums and bird clubs, is an innovative and practical field guide in a handy pocket size that features all the bird species normally found in the Lowveld. The condenced list makes the identification task of the 541 regular and 47 visiting bird species a great deal easier. It includes: Dueldex, a bilingual index of common group names; a handy Shapefinder for quick and easy identification; excellent photographs for easy identification.

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To respect environment in the broad sense, we must first develop a respect for our own environment - the living world of plants and small wildlife that surrounds us in our homes and gardens. Growing plants is one of the most fundamental ways in which we can introduce our children to the wonder and magic of the natural environment. It is also one of the most accessible, as all children, regardless of financial, geographical or social circumstances, can try their hand at it - even if their gardening efforts are limited to nurturing a few tomato seeds in a tin on the window sill. In Gardening is fun, will encourage young - and old - to explore the pleasures of gardening. The message is, conveyed by means of simple text and lively, colourful illustrations, is that gardening can be fun, easy and inexpensive - and that you certainly do not need a large garden to enjoy the benefits. The title abounds with practical suggestions on how to grow plants, interspersed with down-to-earth ecological information aimed at fostering an environmentally-friendly approach to gardening. The content includes, among others, chapters on: Garden habitats; hints for green-finger gardening; growing vegetables; your garden - a wildlife sanctuary; managing problems.

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From algae to organic gardening, earthworms to water features, this is an alphabetically arranged guide to maintaining the typical South African garden. Learn more about essentials like feeding and pruning, how to conserve water, sow seed and care for plants both indoors and out; and enjoy the whimsical or esoteric aspects of gardening, with companion plants, gardening by the light of the moon and the links between plants and the signs of the zodiac. The title is filled with a host of environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional garden care practices, together with an experienced horticulturist's tips on how to achieve and maintain a garden to be proud of. Whether you live near the sea or in the dry interior, garden on a farm or in a tiny space there will be valuable information relevant to the needs of your garden space.

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The fynbos region is one of the most spectacularly diverse places on Earth. This is not an idle statement. When one considers the diversity of insects, freshwater and marine species also associated with the Cape, this hotspot is arguably the hottest of all. It is also confusingly heterogeneous, with a diversity of fine-scale habitats, from wetlands in the lowlands to seeps in the mountains, unique soil, nutrient, aspect and rainfall conditions, all of which combine to sustain and drive this diversity. Fynbos is a fire-adapted vegetation and needs fire to sustain itself: without fire the vegetation would thicken and senesce, permit trees to enter and dominate the system, and eventually exclude the precious nutrients liberated by fire and which the system depends upon for rejuvenation. This book is a guide that will help people who visit, live, manage or own land in the Fynbos Biome to appreciate and manage its extraordinary natural richness.

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The lavender book is a guide to the lavender types and varieties suitable to local conditions and is intended to get you outdoors and growing your own lavender without further ado. This title offers instruction on propagating, planting, nurturing and harvesting lavender. Also included in this collection of lavender wisdom is a treasure trove of original recipes and craft ideas. Recipes follow in a format and are interwoven with useful hints and tips. The use of lavender medicinally, in aromatherapy and as an insect repellant will appeal to the growing body of concerned people who aspire to a more natural organic way of life.

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Orchids in South Africa - A Gardener's Guide shows new and existing growers how to care for their orchid plants. Learn how to treat your orchids (and most commercially available orchids are quite easy!), water and feed them, how much shade or light they need, and how you need to grow, maintain and propagate them to prosper and flower regularly. Many species are discussed in detail, and the accompanying photographs of the species and a selection of popular hybrids will help you identify the different kinds, and also show you what other species you may be able to grow in the conditions you are able to provide. Orchids in South Africa - A Gardener's Guide is an invaluable guide for orchid growers in South Africa. It contains chapters on Orchids and their history; Basic botanical information on orchids; General growing information, and Repotting and dividing of orchids. Growing orchids is a fascinating and satisfying hobby. However, be warned that when you obtain your first orchid you will be blessed with an instant, life-long addiction to orchids!

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Aquatic and Wetland Plants of southern Africa is the most comprehensive identification guide to the aquatic and wetland plants of southern Africa. The book aims to conceptualise the importance of aquatic and wetland plants in the aquatic and transitional zone environment where they are found, and includes scientifically accurate descriptions on 690 species within 91 plant families, illustrated with more than 2 000 full-colour photographs.

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Making the most of Indigenous Trees is undoubtedly the most significant, useful and practical book ever to be published on this subject in South Africa.This third and revised edition contains 22 more tree species. The 163 tree species are alphabetically arranged according to the botanical name, illustrated with more than 850 photographs in full colour and discussed in detail.The following information is provided: An introduction section on tree propagation by seed, cuttings and truncheons. A detailed species description, diagnostic features, natural distribution and habitat. The ecological role and utilisation by mammals, birds and insects. Economic value and use by people, including use in gardens and on the farm, as a source of food for humans and animals, fibre and medicine. Properties of the wood and its utilisation by people. Specific guidelines on propagation and cultivation of each species. A map indicating the distribution of each species. More than 850 carefully selected colour photographs complement and illustrate the text.

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Veld is a natural resource vital to our survival on earth. About 80% of our beautiful country consists of veld. Most of this area is used for livestock and game ranching as well as for biodiversity conservation and recreation. Good veld management is needed to prevent land degradation and to ensure sustainable food production and biodiversity conservation. But good veld management relies on a good knowledge of ecological principles and veld management practices, something many land users did not have the privilege to acquire. This book aims to provide the necessary knowledge to assist land users to effectively manage the land under their care, a huge responsibility indeed. Veld Management - Principles and Practices, attempts to simplify a rather technical subject by including more than 380 photographs and illustrations and using easy understandable language.

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Remarkable birds of South Africa is not meant to be a field guide, but rather gives the reader an overview of the huge variety of birds right on our doorstep. Arranged in taxonomic order, it provides the reader with fascinating notes about the weird and wonderful lives and habits of many bird families or species. There is information on their appearance, voice, preferred habitat, distribution, feeding behaviour, breeding method and much more. Each family is illustrated with carefully chosen full colour photographs. This title is a celebration of our great avian diversity. But sadly, many of South Africa's bird species are endangered and even face extinction due to habitat modification and human disturbance. Remarkable Birds offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of birds and hopefully this title will contribute to knowledge and interest in the remarkable diversity of birds with which South Africa has been blessed.

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This title brings together a collection of indigenous shrubs - not only established favourites but also many lesser-known species that will amaze the reader with their beauty and versatility. The title covers more than 100 species of indigenous shrubs in detail, with descriptive text and more than 200 full-colour photographs for easy identification. Detailed species accounts include a description of the plant, advice on how to propagate it from seed or cuttings and how to care for it in the garden. The author also shares fascinating snippets of information on the traditional uses of each plant and gives down-to-earth advice on how to use the plant in the garden to achieve the best effect. A range of icons offers an easy overview of the plant's size and shape, its cultivation requirements, uses, flower colour, flowering time and other special features. The introductory section includes advice on planning a garden, how to plant and care for shrubs, how to propagate shrubs form seed and cuttings as well as hints on gardening for birds and butterflies.

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This guide is packed with practical, interpretative information on the most commonly encountered animals and plants of the Lowveld - information that is usually only available if you have a game ranger or field guide by your side in the bush! It teaches people how to observe, identify and interpret what they see in the bush in a meaningful way, without having to wade through the reams of technical information found in most other field guides. The reader-friendly mind-map layout of the book, with pictures linked to brief but informative text boxes, makes pertinent information accessible at a glance. Other features include colour-coded chapters for ease of reference, while blocked information and icons in the mammals and trees sections provide technical details in a concise form. Hundreds of stunning interpretative images, highlighted keywords and a flowchart structure to each spread direct the eye to the different topics on each featured species, allowing the reader to pick out whatever is of interest to him or her. Game Ranger in your Backpack is an essential companion for amateur naturalists of all descriptions including first-time international visitors to South Africa's bushveld, annual local holidaymakers or aspiring 'game rangers'.

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Medicinal plants and plant-derived medicine are widely used in traditional cultures all over the world and they are becoming increasingly popular in modern society as natural alternatives to synthetic chemicals. As more and more natural remedies are being commercialised, there is a need for a user-friendly reference guide to the plants and their products. The book gives the reader a bird’s eye view of more than 350 of the bestknown medicinal plants of the world and their uses, in a compact, colourful and scientifically accurate reference text. It provides quick answers to the most obvious questions: Where does this plant originate? What does it look like? In which culture is it traditionally used? What is it used for? Which chemical compounds does it contain? How safe is it? What is known about its pharmacological activity? What evidence is there that it is effective? The authors also provide short overviews of the various health conditions for which medicinal plants are used and the active compounds (secondary metabolites) found in the plants and their modes of actions.

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South Africa has a rich flora of around 19 000 different wildflower species. For those who wish to know more about South Africa's wildflowers this very richness poses its own problems. Most flower guides cover little more than small stretches of the country and the others include too few species to be of much use. Photo Guide to the Wildflowers of South Africa aims to overcome these deficiencies. Carefully conceived to cover those wildflowers that are most likely to attract attention, this countrywide guide includes nearly 900 of the most common and conspicuous wildflowers that occur in South Africa and the neighbouring countries of Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia. The English edition has been fully updated to reflect recent taxonomic changes. This book is now also for the first time available in Afrikaans. An easy-to-use format divides the country into three main wildflower regions, Grassland and Savannah, Fynbos and Namaqualand, grouping the species into each region. Each of the almost 900 species is illustrated and described, with information on its common and scientific names, habitat, distribution map, flowering times and local uses. An ingenious quick guide helps the reader to narrow down the options at a glance. Similar species are placed together to aid comparison and the concise text highlights their differences. Authored and illustrated by professionals with wide experience in producing guidebooks, Photo Guide to the Wildflowers of South Africa is the key to unlocking South Africa's wildflower heritage.

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Culinary Herbs & Spices of the World is a reference guide to more than 120 different culinary herbs, spices and flavourings from all the well-known culinary traditions of the world. It is a scientifically accurate and richly illustrated review of the physical appearance, correct names, botany, geographical origin, history, cultivation, harvesting, culinary uses and flavour ingredients of more than 120 different herbs and associated species. A new perspective on the botanical and chemical principles of tastes and flavours is presented, making it an interesting and colourful contribution to the culinary exploration of the world. A fully illustrated, scientifically accurate guide to practically all commercial herbs and spices, with more than 600 colour photographs. Written in an easy style with notes on propagation, cultivation and culinary uses, the book will appeal to a wide readership, from gardeners and food enthusiasts to botanists and academics. Some exotic herbs and spices - especially from Africa and China - are introduced for the first time to European and American readers. The best-known use or signature dish for each herb or spice is given, highlighting hitherto poorly known culinary traditions. Introductory chapters include a concise overview of the main culinary traditions of the world and a fascinating glimpse into the chemistry of taste and flavour. Includes a quick guide and checklist to the culinary herbs and spices of the world.

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Landscape design isn't so much about rules that guarantee to create the 'perfect design every time', but rather it is a series of guidelines and suggestions that will help to save time and money, as well as generally reduce the frustrations that many design forms often lead to. This ia a title filled with such guidelines, some for the new home owner to help with the many 'first time garden' situations and pitfalls that tend to arise, as well as some for the more experienced home owner who is being challenged with alterations, changes in garden styles or themes or simply looking at old sites in a new light. Combine this with dozens of ideas, plant and hard landscape suggestions, as well as numerous beautiful photographs, which help foster imaginative yet personalised designs, it becomes a book that will help the informed, adventurous, beginner or even laid-back home owner to create beautiful and distinctive surroundings to their homes. Beautifully and simply set out, it takes the home owner through a series of logical yet important steps intended to make garden designing a joy rather than a mystery or frustration - dealing with such aspects as site analysis, plant functions and choices, hard landscape options, thoughts on garden revamping, as well as realistic scenarios for costing a project and pointers on where to find professional assistance if stuck with a problem. Aspects such as water-saving concepts, ways to encourage wild life, and thoughts on environmental or regional approaches to garden design are also included.

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Magic is not too strong a term for the appeal of this unique group of plants, the Mesembs. Radiant in flower and highly diverse in form and stature, this group includes plants as small as wheat grains or as big as a rhinoceros. Their fruits are as complex as any in the floral kingdom or as simple as saltshakers. Mesembs have captured the imagination of botanists, horticulturalists and travellers for many centuries. This title is a must for anyone who want to experience the magic of mesembs.

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Populations of cities have grown at unprecedented rate, consuming ever more land, placing severe strain on the environment and also on cash-strapped governments. Nature needs to be reintroduced to our cities. This book is focused on urban nature conservation, aspects that will resonate with advisors to local government, people interested in bringing back nature to our cities and anyone with a keen interest in nature. Our ecosystems are under threat and green infrastructure needs to be better managed so that there will be less fragmentation and habitat loss. All of us have to live more towards a sustainable urban nature environment. This book guides all of us how to address nature on our doorsteps. There are 214 photos, 6 tables and 25 illustrations on principles of urban nature conservation. The book informs how to participate and synchronise lifestyles to contribute to sustainable urban nature environments. Urban wetlands, watercourses, riparian zones, buffer zones, ecological corridors and functions are explained. The annexures in the book described owl boxes, bird feeders, earthworm bins and how to produce organic compost.What is important is that more and more people move to cities and city developments encroach upon nature areas. These encroachments can be managed to accommodate ecologically sensitive urban nature areas. These areas can be utilised in ways that it will benefit the environment people live in.

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