Book is visual feast and rewarding for gardeners

1001 Plants You Must Grow Before You Die

GENERAL EDITOR: Liz Dobbs PUBLISHER: Pier 9, Murdoch Books RRP: $49.99 REVIEWER: Mary Ann Elliott

WITH a foreword by Graham Rice, author of more than 20 books on plants, and edited by researcher and garden consultant Liz Dobbs, 1001 Plants is the latest in an ongoing series published by Pier 9.

A team of experts has brought their knowledge and expertise to this book to show why every one of these plants deserves a place in the garden.

The range and variety is immense, from trees and shrubs, to wild flowers, perennials, vegetables, fruits and herbs.

From abelia to zygopetalum, each is indexed by its botanical name and is also separately indexed by its particular hardiness zone; for example, those that do well when warmer than 15 C.

This makes it easy to choose plants for your particular conditions.

If you wish to look up marigolds, blueberry or sweet corn, you will find them listed as tagetes, vaccinium corymbosum and zea respectively.

If you are not familiar with the Latin names, the useful text accompanying each entry cites the common name.

For the un-versed, it may require extensive trawling to find what you are looking for, although the beautiful photographs may guide you.

Chapters are divided into annuals, bulbs, perennials, shrubs, climbers, roses, herbs, fruits and vegetables.

Most species featured are suitable for small spaces, from windowsills to yards.

This is a very rewarding book for gardeners, with hundreds of tips, fascinating information, and guidance when choosing varieties.

Although Europe and United States-oriented, most plants are readily available in Australia.

You’re sure to find the right plant for the right place and even if you are not an avid gardener, this book is a visual delight.

You’re sure to find the right plant for the right place and even if you are not an avid gardener, this book is a visual delight.