Protea Book: A Guide to Cultivated Proteaceae
Otherworldly forms, head-turning hues, and amazing textures set apart the blooms of plants commonly known as proteas. Matthews leads readers to an understanding of the sort of tough environments and nutrient-poor conditions in which most proteas (members of the Proteaceae family) grow, being endemic by and large to Australia, Africa, or Central and South America. Gardeners wishing to take on the challenge of growing these unusual plants in their own gardens will profit from Matthews' decades of experience, translated here into savvy counsel on plant culture, and helpful suggestions for using proteas in the landscape. An encyclopedic listing covers a fascinating array of species and cultivated varieties, with each entry indicating critical details such as whether a plant is hardy or frost tender. In perfect partnership with Matthews' learned instruction, a wealth of photographs shows to perfection the beauty of protea flowers, from silken bracts to rarities sporting long spikes or tight cones.Alice JoyceCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved