Discover the enchanting world of 'A Splendour of Succulents & Cacti', a captivating book that delves into the beauty and ecological significance of these modern botanical treasures. Ideal for plant enthusiasts, this beautifully illustrated guide captures the unique charm of succulents and cacti, the trendy 'plant pets' adored by designers worldwide. With a rich history, succulents have long fascinated collectors, evolving from early European curiosities to essential elements of contemporary gardening. This exquisite collection, published by Bodleian Library Publishing in 2023, features vibrant color illustrations and detailed descriptions of various species, showcasing their diverse characteristics and natural allure. Explore the fascinating narratives surrounding these resilient plants, known not only for their striking appearances but also for their potential contributions to modern medicine and agriculture. An essential addition for gardeners and botanists alike, this book invites you to marvel at succulents and cacti as both wonders of nature and art. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own plant collection or simply wish to appreciate the aesthetic appeal of these unique plants, 'A Splendour of Succulents & Cacti' serves as your perfect guide. Shipping for this item is free! Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781851245970
Year: 2023
Publisher: Bodleian Library Publishing


Description:


Succulents, especially cacti, are the current focus of serious ecological studies but also the darlings of designers and style influencers. Their endearing, characterful looks have given them the status of trendy ‘plant pets’.

But succulentomania is not new. While these plants have always been part of the landscape in the dry vastnesses of the Americas, Australia and Africa, curiosities such as furry-flowered stapeliads and serpentine euphorbias were a source of fascination for early European plant collectors – and in eighteenth-century Bavaria a prosperous apothecary grew an ‘American aloe’ that astounded all who saw it.

This apothecary, Johann Wilhelm Weinmann, was the mastermind behind a groundbreaking book in which he aimed to include thousands of plants from all over the world, describing their individual characteristics and commissioning magnificent colour illustrations of each specimen. The succulents he featured are reproduced here in all their splendour. We may no longer look to them to treat gangrene, manufacture glass or disperse kidney stones, but succulents are proving of great interest to modern medicine and agriculture, and we can marvel at them afresh not only as wonders of nature but also as works of art.