Mexican Plants

The geography of Mexico takes in a sprawling variety of environments--from mountains to tropical beaches, and from rainforests to deserts--so it's no surprise that the biodiversity of the nation's plant life is similarly diverse. This new title in the Kew Pocketbook series is a celebration of Mexico's impressive flora, and it includes everything from orchids, chili, and cacti, to marigolds--which are associated with Día de los Muertos celebrations--and dahlias, the national flower. Forty of Mexico's signature plants are showcased here, illustrated with color paintings from the archives of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew--one of the most extensive collections of botanical art in the world. An introductory chapter by Kew horticulturist Bryony Langley provides a comprehensive overview, and extended captions accompany each painting.