Product Description

How did exotic, oriental plants find their way into the borders of English gardens? Penelope Hobhouse - plantswoman, garden designer and authority on historic gardens - is uniquely qualified to shed new light on the absorbing history of gardens from ancient Egypt to the twentieth century. Available in paperback, this is the definitive book on the history of gardens and gardening which describes the evolution of the Western model and explains the various historical factors which have created the modern idea of gardening as both art form and popular pastime. In her magnificent survey of the rich heritage of Western gardening, Penelope Hobhouse's engrossing text is perfectly complemented by an unsurpassable collection of beautiful illustrations that range from the earliest Egyptian tomb painting to some of today's best garden photography. Great care has been taken in the design of the book, making it both structured and accessible. Plants in Garden History is a classic work that will be referred to for many years to come.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #341214 in Books
• Published on: 2004-05
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

Review
“Penelope Hobhouse’s book is festooned with grand ideas… an unusually informative and accessible history for practicing gardeners.” -- The New York Times Book Review

From the Publisher
In this sumptuous survey, Penelope Hobhouse—distinguished plantswoman, garden designer, and historian—presents a definitive history of gardens and gardening, exploring the evolution of the Western model and the historical factors that have created the modern idea of gardening as both popular pastime and art form. Against this backdrop, Hobhouse focuses on the plants themselves—the raw materials of the garden maker’s art. Opulently illustrated with 375 paintings, illuminated manuscripts, botanical drawings, and frescoes, as well as period and contemporary photographs, this is a classic work that will be consulted for years to come.

About the Author
Penelope Hobhouse is internationally respected as a gardening expert. Her other books include The National Trust Book of Gardening, Garden Style and Flower Gardens and the National Trust Book of Borders.

Customer Reviews

The best book on Garden History I've read
This beautiful book by one of the most acclaimed gardening experts in the world is a fascinating walk through the gardens of the past. From ancient gardens through to medieval enclosed gardens and more modern garden styles, Hobhouse is a fantastic guide to matters of style, content, and design.

If you enjoy garden history, or books like Anna Pavord's The Tulip I think you will really like this book. It is also great inspiration if you would like to include a historical garden (like a knot garden) into your landscaping plans

Beautiful
I first saw this book at an art bookshop. It is one of the lovliest books I have see in a long time. I am just about to purchase it and I can hardly wait to receive it in the mail. For anyone loving plants, beauty and history this would make such a excellent present.