1500 orchid species are profiled in this authoritative, detailed, and carefully researched encyclopedia. Varied and interesting, these beautiful plants are illustrated with over 1000 photographs in a reference that will appeal to any orchid-lover. Isobyl la Croix is a scientist, plant hunter, and horticulturalist; her 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. The author has undertaken an extensive effort to bring all orchid names up-to-date to reflect the latest scientific thinking and taxonomy.
The new authority on orchids. -- Robert Haehle South Florida Sun-Sentinel 20080905 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. -- Kathleen A. Welton Library Journal 20081015 An authoritative and lavishly photographed beauty of a book that will delight orchid enthusiasts and astonish everyone else. -- Nancy Schoeffler Hartford Courant 20081114 A gorgeous picture-laden respite from winter, perfect to read by the fire. Buffalo Spree 20081101 A must-have. ... Not since the publication of Hawk's Encyclopedia of Cultivated Orchids in 1965 has such an authoritative, detailed and researched book been published. La Croix has created the definitive orchid encyclopedia and no serious reference approaches the depth and authority of this remarkable book. With 100 orchid species profiled, this is the book that all orchid enthusiasts are desiring. If you are not an orchid grower, this tome is a beautiful and impressive coffee table book. -- Russell Studebaker Tulsa World 20081206 This comprehensive reference is the ultimate for cultivated orchids, a book for the serious orchid lover or grower. ... There is no better book for the orchid grower than this well-illustrated reference. -- Richard Poffenbaugh Mansfield News Journal 20081209 The 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. -- Joel M. Lerner Washington Post 20081213 At more than 500 pages, [this book] is a phenomenal reference for the orchid lover. -- Cindy Decker Columbus Dispatch 20091122