The genus Gladiolus has fascinated plant collectors, taxonomists and the general public for centuries. Known for their spectacular flowers, these highly adapted and specialised plants occur throughout Africa, Madagascar, Europe and the Middle East. South Africa is home to more than half of the world’s Gladiolus species and the Western Cape is the heart of species diversity. Saunders’ Field Guide to Gladioli of South Africa is the first of its kind to offer a complete photographic record of the 166 species that occur in the region. Posthumously completed, this book is the culmination of the Saunders’ long search to find and photograph every known species of Gladiolus in South Africa. It includes: An introduction comprising a brief history of gladioli, information about the morphology and taxonomy of the genus, and guidelines for use in the field. Detailed descriptions of the main floral parts of each species, along with information about ecology, pollinators, similar species and conservation status; field notes were written by Rachel Saunders. Over 1,000 exquisite photographs taken in situ detailing morphology and habitat. Up-to-date distribution maps indicating where species have been recorded. A glossary of terms with illustrations unpacking difficult terminology. A coveted record of the life’s work of a couple who contributed to botany and horticulture in South Africa; it will be treasured by anyone with an interest in these magnificent flowers. Sales points: Accessible coverage of all known gladioli in South Africa; identification at a glance; full-colour photographs of all species described; expert authors.
This comprehensive guide, lavishly illustrated with more than 1,100 full-color photographs, covers the 166 Gladiolus species known to occur in the region.
Lesotho Cornflag Robust perennial, 30–60 cm, with a fan of stiff, sword-shaped leaves, 15–25 mm wide, and large, nodding, flared, scarlet flowers mottled with white, with a curved tube, 33– 37 mm long. Alpine hillsides and fields in the ...
The text also touches on the practical uses of the plants.
Includes common and conspicuous plants as well as some alien species that are naturalized in the region. This book showcases some of the region’s diverse, strikingly beautiful floral splendours.
Cuts dung from a fresh dung pad and moulds it into a ball, which it rolls away and buries at some distance. The dung ball is then remodelled by the female into a brood ball into which an egg is laid. When mature, the larva pupates ...
The acacias, commonly known as 'thorn trees', are probably the most distinctive and well known group of trees in Africa. This book provides a complete account of all 48 recognized...
The book also explores the power of chiefs, the tension between communal landownership and the desire for private title, the failure of the willing-seller, willing-buyer approach, women and land reform, the role of banks, and the debates ...
Field Guide to the Succulent Euphorbias of Southern Africa
This field guide follows hot on the heels of The Amaryllidaceae of Southern Africa (published in 2016), and the addition of 560 photographs and several new paintings in this field guide makes for an even more effective guide for ...
Grass Aloes in the South African Veld