The complete encyclopedia of garden flowers

Flowers are with us at every stage of our life. They are featured in rituals and celebrations in cultures all over the world. We use them to adorn our home, to establish a mood, to give as gifts, and to create a garden of beauty and color. By choosing plants carefully, the gardener can produce a wonderful outdoor area that will continue to provide a delightful floral display throughout the seasons. The Complete Encyclopedia of Garden Flowers features the most beautiful blooms from around the world, including annuals and perennials, trees, orchids, shrubs, ground covers, bromeliads, and bulbs. As well as popular plants such as roses, rhododendrons, and camellias, there are the less well known but no less striking trumpet-shaped flowers of Brugmansia, the charming heart-shaped blooms of Dicentra, and the dazzlingly colorful flower spikes of Lupinus. The book begins with a fascinating introduction to growing flowers, choosing the right plant for your region, and caring for your garden. There are also informative articles on the different groups of flowering plants. Following this section is an A to Z of flowers, from abutilon to zinnia. For each genus there is a general introduction plus cultivation information and a helpful hint. There is also an at-a-glance table that reveals the favorite species and groups, describing their size, flower color, flowering season, fragrance, hardiness zone, and frost tolerance. Delightful full-color photographs are accompanied by detailed captions. This stunning book also features an easy-to-use seasonal calendar, a glossary, and a fully cross-referenced index. With its accessible style, mix of practical and factual information, comprehensive descriptions, and gorgeous color photographs, The Complete Encyclopedia of Garden Flowers is a must for every gardener, and for all who love the unique beauty and romance of flowers. The Complete Encyclopedia of Garden Flowers features popular flowering plants from all over the world. Some have been photographed in gardens, while others are shown in their natural habitat. The full-color shots make it easy for gardeners to picture the plants in their own garden.