Author Description

We can no longer afford to underestimate the extent of our dependence upon plants--they underpin almost all life on Earth. The land surfaces of the world are covered in a green mantle of some 303,000 species of plant life. This book offers a journey into the history, diversity, beauty, and importance of plants. Examining their origins, the characteristics they have in common, what distinguishes the various groups, their migration, and evolution, Moore discusses what is being done to ensure the future of plants in the wake of overexploitation and pollution. All topics are considered at both a global and local level, and for every region of the world. The beauty and variety of plants is celebrated in the numerous full- color illustrations.