Product Description

1500 orchid species are profiled in this authoritative, detailed, and carefully researched encyclopedia. Infinitely varied and hugely interesting, these strikingly beautiful plants are sumptuously illustrated with over 1000 photographs in a reference that no orchid lover can afford to be without. Isobyl la Croix is a scientist, plant hunter, and horticulturalist; her deep passion for orchids informs the plant selection and adds depth to the plant descriptions. The cultivation advice includes information about the orchid's native habitat—including elevation, geography, and climate. Recent developments in DNA analysis have led to some surprising findings with regard to the relationships between orchids, and the author has undertaken an extensive effort to bring all orchid names up-to-date to reflect the latest scientific thinking and taxonomy. From Acampe to Zygostates, no other serious reference approaches the depth and authority of this remarkable book.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #43576 in Books
• Published on: 2008-08-21
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 524 pages

From Booklist
The word orchid conjures an exotic image of lush rarity when, in fact, orchids are one of the largest family of plants, with an estimated 17,000–35,000 species worldwide, depending on the counting botanists. Horticulturist la Croix selected the fraction of orchid species that may be cultivated in gardens and greenhouses to summarize for enthusiasts and interested readers. Chapters briefly discussing the basics of cultivation, pests and diseases, and conservation are followed by an A–Z of genera and species. Each of the 350 genera that are included is described, with worldwide distribution and general cultivation requirements given. Entries for each species include plant and blossom size and characteristics as well as native location and habitat conditions. A substantial number of the species entries are accompanied by large, attractive photographs. The volume also contains a glossary, a bibliography, and common and scientific name indexes. The book’s strength is the author’s sensible advice, based on her work as a scientist and orchid grower. This volume is a  good value and worthy of consideration for any botany and gardening collection. --Linda Scarth

Review
“This is a remarkable book and an essential resource for public libraries. The depth and authority of the content, along with the spectacular photographs, make it a valuable reference for enthusiasts, collectors, and those starting out with orchids.” (Library Journal )

“This is a gorgeous picture-laden respite from winter, perfect to read by the fire.”

(Buffalo Spree )

“[This] is an authoritative and lavishly photographed beauty of a book that will delight orchid enthusiasts and astonish everyone else.”

(Hartford Courant )

“[Isobyl] la Croix has created the definitive orchid encyclopedia…[w]ith 100 orchid species profiled, this is the book that all orchid enthusiasts are desiring.”

(Tulsa World )

“This comprehensive reference is the ultimate for cultivated orchids, a book for the serious orchid lover or grower.”

(Mansfield Journal )

“[T]he most definitive and well-researched textbook about orchids in more than 40 years…This 524-page hardcover reference will help you identify and appreciate all your favorites.”

(Washington Post )

“At more than 500 pages, [this book] is a phenomenal reference for the orchid lover.”
(Columbus Dispatch )

About the Author
Isobyl la Croix is editor of the prestigious journal, The Orchid Review, published by the royal horticultural society. She trained as a botanist at the University of Edinburgh and has done extensive fieldwork throughout the world, especially in Africa. She has written numerous books on a wide range of subjects, including orchids, and has contributed articles to specialist journals.

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Customer Reviews

Amazing photography
Just received this new book and am very impressed with the photographs. Good selection of species, some common in cultivation but many that you probably never have nor will see at any nursery or orchid show. Compared to the other big encyclopedias out there this one has mostly better photographs and more in depth descriptions of the plants and flowers but cultural information may be less complete. If you already have several of these general tomes then this one is not mandatory to purchase but will make a good addition to any library. A very nice book and good value.

Highly Recommended
While I can only concur with the above reviewers this excellent volume falls short in that not all orchids addressed are illustrated. I know space is an issue, but even a small photograph would prove really helpful with identification issues

Fantastic new identifier and research book
This book is a must for every orchid grower, whether beginner or experienced grower. The multitude of species covered and the wealth of information provided makes this book indispensable. Highly recommended.