From Booklist
Cactus and succulent expert Dortort, a lecturer at the University of California Botanical Garden, has assembled an attractive and user-friendly guide to succulent plants. The book begins with overview chapters on succulents in nature and in cultivation. Subsequent chapters, organized by family and genus, contain an overview of the families and then move into essays on individual species. More than 2,000 succulents are featured, with descriptions, climate information, trivia, and a note on similar plants, if any. There are 750 full-color photographs of plants, most in their natural habitats. Each entry includes information on the plant’s native habitat and its cultivation requirements. Both familiar species and more exotic varieties are showcased. In the final chapter, Dortort covers “odds and ends”—plants not normally known as succulents, such as begonias and philodendrons. A genera-specific reading list is offered, for those seeking further information. Novice plant enthusiasts and those who are already well familiar with succulents will appreciate this comprehensive and accessible volume. Recommended for all public and academic libraries, particularly those with strong gardening or plant collections. --Rebecca Vnuk
Review
“Sure to be valuable for botanists and gardening enthusiasts.” (
Library Journal)
“A book like this is as restorative as a three-week vacation, minus the hassles with airplanes.” (Dominique Browning
The New York Times)
“…a new reference for newbie fans and avid collectors.” (Mary James
San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles)
“A great companion book for beginners as well as avid collectors of these fabulous plants.” (Nancy Szerlag
Detroit News)
“Comprehensive and accessible volume … recommended for all.” (
Booklist)
"This book is a fascinating compendium and homage to succulence, amply repaying exploration to both expert or experienced novice who thirsts to know more." (Ian Hodgson
The Garden)
"A new reference for newbie fans and avid collectors." (
San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles)
"A great companion book for beginners as well as avid collectors of these fabulous plants." (
Detriot News)
"A book like this is as restorative as a three-week vacation, minus the hassles with airplanes." (Dominique Browning
The New York Times)
"Comprehensive and accessible volume ... recommended for all." (
Booklist)
"Without question the best contemporary presentation of this vast group of plants that are primarily from southern Africa and Mexico." (
The Desert Sun)
"You’ll learn about more than 2,000 succulents, their natural history and how to enjoy them in your garden or in your home."
(
The Chronicle Herald)
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