This comprehensive, beautifully illustrated encyclopedia of plants contains information on more than 20,000 plants from all around the world. Organized in an A-Z format by botanical name, the individual entries provide a detailed description of each plant and its features, including notes on origin, cultivation requirements, growth habit, propagation, and pests and diseases. The introduction explains how the 12 climatic zones work and looks at the environment and the plants that grow in those zones. Also included are lists of plants suitable for growing in specific areas, such as alpine gardens and seaside gardens. In addition, the introduction provides ideas for garden design. Flora covers all the plant groups: trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials, bulbs, corms and tubers, cacti and succulents, lawns, ground covers, ornamental grasses, herbs, vegetables, fruit trees, other fruits, nut trees, palms and cycads, ferns, climbers and creepers, and orchids. Written by a team of international botanical and horticultural writers, this book will allow all gardeners to choose the perfect plants for their garden and will expand their knowledge on the wealth of plants available. The stunning color photography from all around the world is the perfect complement to the text.