Product Description

This is a complete revision of the first botanical field guide on this subject. This revision, like the initial edition , discusses the more common and dominant woody plants, but also annuals that are often seen in Baja California. Over 400 plants are discussed along with 285 color photographs, and nearly 40 more pages of text have been added to bring the total to 256. The chapters on geography, geology, phytogeography, climate, cacti and endemism have considerably more information than the first printing; in addition there is a new chapter concerning coastal wetlands. Each illustrated plant has a description on the facing page assisting even the novice to identify the specimen. The scientific,common and Spanish names are given, as well as information concerning the region of the peninsula where the plant may be found and the habitat in which it thrives. Endemic plants are identified and discussed; there are also brief discussions of the uses of many of the plant! s by both the aborigines and the Baja Californians living there today. Both vegetative and topographical maps are included on the inside covers; There are also four pages of descriptive drawings. Other pages furnish a glossary of botanical terms and Spanish words plus an extensive bibliography of the natural history of Baja California. This comprehensive plant field guide will prove invaluable for both the casual visitor and the serious amateur as well as an excellent text for students. The cardon pictured on the cover may be the tallest ever photographed. It measures over 60 feet or 20 meters and is possibly 400 years old.; it is located in Llano San Pedro approximately 27 miles south of Bahia de los Angeles

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #257717 in Books
• Published on: 1989-09
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback

About the Author
The author is a biologist, a noted authority and a frequent traveler in the Baja California peninsula for over half a century. He is the author of numerous articles and two books concerning the natural history of the region. He and his Mexican wife Gelin are associated with the San Diego Natural History Museum and often serve as guides to individuals and groups interested in traveling or studying the natural history of peninsular Baja California and the surrounding seas and islands.

Customer Reviews

Overall, a good book
Overall, "Baja California Plant Field Guide" is a good book for the naturalist. However, its design may not help the begginer since it assumes that the readear has a well developed knowledge in plant morphology. Introductions to Baja California and its bioregions are very good but the section for plant identification may cause some trouble to the naturalist that is trying to identify a new plant species (unless it is a common one). If the book is re-edited it might be good to incorporate a format similar to some bird guides and particularly, newer plant guides.

Excellent! A must for anyone serious about Baja flora.
Beautiful presentation for the novice and expert alike. Excellent photography. Gives botanical names, Spanish and English of plants. The folklore(medicinal) of native plants is also very interesting. Norman Roberts is a true friend of Baja.

Great book
My friend Mark, who is a Biologist, just about slept with the book on our last Baja trip! Great collection of plant I.D.s A must have for those who love Baja and love plants.