This book is sourced upon order. / Wildflowers of the British countryside.

Featuring over 500 illustrations, including 33 full-page color plates. This guide offers a straightforward method for identifying the botanical names of British wildflowers. It meticulously details the "Natural Orders" or "Families," guiding beginners through the natural system of plant classification. The book concludes with indexes of species, genera, explanations of the etymology of scientific names, and a glossary of common names with their Latin equivalents, facilitating easy reference for readers. Particular emphasis is placed on the significance of studying plant physiology, especially pollination mechanisms: it elucidates the distinctions between self-fertilization, wind pollination, and insect pollination. The text explains how flower structures (such as petal shape and the timing of stigma receptivity) are adapted for specific methods of pollination. The writing possesses the elegance and rigor characteristic of the Victorian era, serving not only as a practical reference but also as an introductory guide to the world of scientific observation. The preface suggests that identifying a name is merely the first step; true study begins "when one has observed the plant through all its stages until no more can be discovered." This volume reflects the late 19th and early 20th-century British passion for natural history. It harmoniously blends artistic illustrations with precise scientific classification, allowing readers to cultivate systematic botanical knowledge while appreciating the vibrant beauty of countryside flowers. - First published in 1988, printed in Spain.