California Desert Flowers : An Introduction to Families, Genera, and Species (Phyllis M. Faber Books)

Rating:
Summary: Comprehensive & Beautifully Illustrated
Review: Beginner or advanced wildflower botanist, there is something for everyone in this new field guide for California desert wildflowers. Each chapter is introduced with a stunning photo, followed by wildflower species grouped by family, genera, and species, rather than approximate color of the flower. This format enables the user to familiarize themselves with the characteristics and similarities between related species, leading to a better understanding of wildflower diversity and habitat adaptations. The book is illustrated with excellent photos taken almost exclusively by the authors. In addition to close up photos of the flowers, there's often an image showing the entire plant. This is very handy for identification purposes. The text is enriched by tidbits of information regarding usages of the plant, unusual features, etc. For those who wish to own only one field guide about desert wildflowers, this well-researched book should be the one. For those of us with "field-guide-itis," no collection would be complete without this volume on the reference shelf or in a daypack.