If you or someone you know is a budding plant enthusiast, this is the book for you. Elpel is plant knowledgeable and has created a book to help you identify some plant species’ characteristics in a very usable way.
Before you begin the identification, Elpel discusses the evolution of plants from the water to land. Fungi, another lifeform, assisted plants in their evolution to survive on land and today we know that most plant species are part of the wide fungal (mycelial) network. What is the difference between plants and animals? When did the different plant families evolve? Which family is the oldest? Elpel covers this.
Monocots, dicots, composite, irregular-what does all this mean in plant speak? Elpel’s explanations through words, drawings, and examples clear all of this up. He then goes into how to determine different fern species and also the various divisions of flowering plants and their subclasses. Want more? There is a section on plant physiology as well.
Most identification books expect you to know the jargon to look up an unknown plant. Elpel teaches you the jargon and how to use it. If you love plants, this book is an excellent addition to your plant book collection.