Understanding the Flowering Plants

Book excerpt: To study a plant in detail is to make a fascinating journey of discovery. Even plants we think we know well will often surprise us as we look at the intricacy of their structure and how they are put together. This fascinating guide explains what flowering plants are and their relationship to other groups of plants. With drawings, paintings and photographs throughout, it advises on how to carry out a botanical study and will prove essential reading for botanical artists, photographers and all those wishing to gain a greater understanding of flowering plants. Contents include: practical advice on techniques, tools and other equipment used in botanical work; the structure and function of the main parts of the flowering plant, highlighting features that are important in illustration for botanical purposes; suggestions for projects, which can be used to assess your understanding or stimulate the start of a new project. Superbly illustrated with 366 colour images.