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Rhododendron
Series: Botanical
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Format: Hardback
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See moreA new account of the nature and culture of the beautiful, prolific rhododendron.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
Has a group of plants ever inspired such love in some, and such hatred in others, as rhododendrons? Their propensity towards sexual infidelity makes them popular with horticultural breeders, and early plant collectors faced mortal peril to bring stunning new species back to life. They can clothe whole hillsides or gardens with colour.
But there is a darker side to these plants. Numerous Chinese folk tales link them with tragedy and death. They can poison livestock and intoxicate humans, and their narcotic honey has been used as a weapon of war. Rhododendron ponticum has run riot across the British countryside, but the full story of this implacable invader contains many surprises.
Rhododendron by Richard Milne explores the many ways in which rhododendrons have influenced human societies and the extraordinary story of its evolution. Tales are told of mythical figures, intrepid collectors, and eccentric plant breeders. Over a thousand species exist, ranging from rugged trees on Himalayan slopes to rock-hugging alpines. However much you know about rhododendrons, this book will tell you something new.
Series: Botanical
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Rhododendron
Has a group of plants ever inspired such love in some, and such hatred in others, as rhododendrons? Their propensity towards sexual infidelity makes them popular with horticultural breeders, and early plant collectors faced mortal peril to bring stunning new species back to life. They can clothe whole hillsides or gardens with colour. But there is a darker side to...HardbackSold Out -
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Rhododendron by Richard Milne is celebrated for exploring the fascinating history and cultural significance of this diverse genus. Reviews praise Milne's engaging storytelling, highlighting anecdotes about early plant collectors and breeders. The book is noted for its accessibility to both garden enthusiasts and those interested in botany, with vivid photographs and a comprehensive account of rhododendrons' evolution and impact.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781780238159
Publisher: Reaktion Books
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 01 September 2017
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Reaktion Books
Illustration: 100 illustrations, 70 in colour
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 138.0mm
Height: 216.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 224
Collections
About the Author
Richard Milne is a senior lecturer in the school of Biology at the University of Edinburgh. He is a keen field botanist with an interest in creative writing.
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