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Review for : The Explorer's Garden: Rare and Unusual Perennials

Following the introduction, gardener, garden writer and explorer Dan Hinkley looks at a number of plant genus through over 30 chapters. Also discussed are plant propagation and plant collecting; a list of plant sources in the USA, UK, Netherlands, France, New Zealand and Australia; and the book includes a bibliography and a comprehensive index.

The chapters are conveniently arranged alphabetically by plant genus, if not by chapter title, and the plants or groups include: Actinidiaceae; Alangium; Aristolochia; Azara; Buddleja; Calycanthus; Clerodendrum; Clethera; Daphne, Edgeworthia and Ovidia; Daphniphyllum; Drymis, Tasmannia and Pseudowintera; Eucryphia; Euonymus; Garrya; Hamamelis; Helwingia; Hydrangea; Illicium; Itea; Lardizabala; Mahonia and Berberis; Metapanax and other Araliaceae; Oleaceae; Pittosporum and Billardiera; Sarcococca; Sassafras; Stachyurus; Viburnum.

Around 250 plants are illustrated in full-colour good size photographs; and there are some very attractive and fascinating plants shown, with the accompanying text only adding to their allure. Hinckley writes with the enthusiasm that comes from the personal experience of seeing these plants in their natural setting, and he highlights just what it is about each plant that makes it worthy of a space in the garden. He also includes notes form his travel journals that help add to the picture of the plants' natural setting.

This is a fascinating book, a good read and very informative. There are also some wonderful new discoveries here, so many stunning plants that something is bound to appeal, they may not all be plants that shout with vivid colours or displays, but one thing the seems to stand out is that all these plants have a distinctive presence about them; the only problem one is left with is how to obtain some of these gems for ones own garden. ( )