Plant family tree created in useful book

PLANT families are explained and explored in this useful and very attractively presented book.

The authors created a plant family tree by comparing DNA samples from a range of plants, looking for genetic similarities and differences.

The tree shows the progress of evolution from now-extinct ancestors to the modern plants we know today.

There are three thematic sections; gymnosperms, monocots and eudicots, with examples. These are further subdivided into flowers, ferns, leaves, fruits and seeds, all grouped into chapters, with keys and an index to major groups, making them easy to find.

Understanding the characteristics that distinguish the main plant groups allows the gardener to accurately identify, based on these up to date classifications.

The beautiful illustrations complement the informative text.

For example, the mostly evergreen Myrtle family with its decorative peeling bark and exotic-looking flowers consists of the eucalyptus, tea trees (melaleuca) and bottlebrushes (callistemon).

This Australian native family originated 90-70 million years ago!

The citrus, maple, brassica, cactus, rhubarb, mint, palm, ginger, bromeliad and olive families are all represented here.

Information boxes highlight useful facts for gardeners,

Follow your favourite plant families along their evolutionary paths in this unique and accessible guide.