Smallest Kingdom, The: Plants and Plant Collectors at the Cape of Good Hope

Description

The Smallest Kingdom is an illustrated account of the botanical exploration of South Africa's Cape Floral Kingdom and the plants that this region has given to the gardens of the world over the last four centuries. Over Kew's 250 year history, Cape plants and their collectors have contributed greatly to the establishment of the Royal Botanic Gardens,Kew as the pre-eminent centre for botanical research. The book is illustrated throughout with full colour botanical paintings, and will appeal to conservationists, gardeners, botanists, historians, botanical artists, naturalists, and visitors to the Cape.

Mike Fraser was awarded the prestigious Maloth Medal of the Botanical Society of South Africa in 1996 for his work in promoting conservation of endangered wildlife of the Cape through his publications. Liz Fraser was awarded the prestigious Maloth Medal of the Botanical Society of South Africa in 1996 for her work in promoting conservation of endangered wildlife of the Cape through her publications.

"An extraordinary and enjoyable new book on plant hunters." -- "Monterey County Herald" "In this colorful, truly charming volume, Michael Fraser and Liz Fraser draw the reader into the story of plants from the Cape of Good Hope and the people who loved and studied them over the past 400 years. . . . Each chapter creates an inner pleasure in the heart of the reader, who will exclaim, 'Wow, I never knew that' or 'That's simply incredible.' The authors also provide ecological insights, linking the land to people the world over--people who appreciate color, beauty, scientific inquiry, and life itself. . . . Highly recommended." -- "Choice"