Crapemyrtle, A Grower's Thoughts

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Summary: THE book on crapemyrtle
Review: I received this beautiful book through amazon.com and have read and reread it several times now. I must congratulate the author. It is beautifully written and a delight for the eye as well (not only because of the sumptuous photos but also because of the striking, contemporary design). It obviously contains an enormous amount of knowledge and expertise gained through many years of experience, but I also get the sense that it was compiled with a profound sense of inner quiet, of humility, and of complete, loving identification with the subject: the plants themselves. "A grower's thoughts" is an apt subtitle. The text does reflect thoughtfulness and intelligence throughout, from the intriguing documentation regarding the early history of Lagerstroemia in the Western world, through the comprehensive discussion on all aspects of cultivation and propagation, and in the detailed observations and evaluations of all the principal cultivars. This book will certainly take its place with my other two favorite works on tropical/subtropical plants: the Handbook on Oleanders and the Handbook on Plumeria Culture (both by Richard and Mary Helen Eggenberger). Crapemyrtle: A Grower's Thoughts will certainly remain the standard gardener's reference guide to the genus Lagerstroemia for years to come. A must for any enthusiast.

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Summary: An extremely valuable book for the Crape Myrtle enthusiast.
Review: I recently purchased this book while visiting the National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. and was thoroughly satisfied with everything I read.