Generously illustrated with 950 photos, of which 730 are previously unpublished, this volume is as valuable as an identification guide as it is a practical handbook. Interesting snippets of history, ethnobotany, and biology inform the text and make this a lively catalogue of these remarkable plants. Incorporating the most up-to-date nomenclature, this volume covers new genera that were not known in 2003, such as Dransfieldia, Leucothrinax, and Tahina, and gives particular attention to those genera that have risen in popularity in recent years, such as Coccothrinax, Dypsis, and Licuala. Over 700 new and improved photographs and descriptions of six genera are new to this edition Newest, most up-to-date nomenclature New appendix of gardens around the world with significant palm collections

About the Author

Robert Lee Riffle (1940--2006) was an internationally recognized authority on palms and tropical plants. Paul Craft is a self-employed horticultural consultant for private and public botanical gardens, nurseries, homeowners, and businesses around the world. Scott Zona is the author of nearly 100 articles on palms. He teaches and lectures all over the world about tropical plants.