Product Description

Finding an array of unique and diverse plants suited for shade might be perceived as a cumbersome task with limited options available. Author and shade perennial expert, W. George Schmid, dispels this myth in this encyclopedia - a reference providing information on nearly 8000 species.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #694168 in Books
• Published on: 2002-10-15
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 494 pages

Review
A man who loves shade and loves plants, W. George Schmid is a botanist in tune with gardeners. From early childhood he has been fascinated with shade and the safety it offers to both flora and fauna. In this encyclopaedia he opens up a world of wonder in the darkened corners of nature - colourful flowers and foliage all thriving in shaded conditions. Whilst most people view a shady garden as difficult, Schmid demonstrates how untrue this opinion is. From his obvious favourites of hostas, trilliums, ferns and tricyrtis, he shares rarer gems such us uvularias, mertensias and sanguinarias. Bamboos and grasses, ground covering selaginella and towering rheums, the range is truly awe-inspiring and should dispel any gardener's initial despair with a shady plot. Whilst lacking in photographic accompaniments apart from the central pages, this is more than made up with the text, a personal account of Schmid's experience with each genus, enhanced by his amusing writing and sound plantsmanshp. A valuable addition to any shade gardeners library. - Lucy Watson