is unique in that it is not regional in nature, but offers a key for all the gymnosperms in both the United States and Canada. The key is supplemented with full color illustrations depicting leaves, cones, bark and mature plants in amazing detail. Dr. Elray S. Nixon is a recognized expert in plant ecology and taxonomy and Bruce Lyndon Cunningham is well known for his botanical prints and wood carvings. Bruce has degrees in both forestry and art. This first-of-its kind book features full color artwork of 115 species of gymnosperms. Most gymnosperms (naked seed) are shrubs or trees with naked seeds borne on the scales or on the branches. Many are conifers (cone-bearing) - an important commercial species. The volume is basically an identification key with a series of dichotomous choices leading to the scientific name of the gymnosperm. The key itself is richly illustrated with examples. Species distribution maps are placed throughout the book and a unique illustrated glossary is included. I am a forester, as well as a bibliophile. As a forester, I am used to scientific tomes, which have all the detailed data about trees, but don't convey the beauty and awe of trees. In this work, Dr. Nixon includes an easy-to-follow dichotomous key and Bruce Lyndon Cunningham's detailed artwork breath life into it. The illustrations remind me why I chose to work with trees. They are so colorful and detailed that I suspect some people are buying the book for the artwork alone. The book is useful to me for gymnosperms identification, but I enjoy just turning the pages and enjoying the pictures of tree components. It's the next best thing to a walk in the woods. GYMNOSPERMS of the United States and Canada is available online at www.forester-artist.com or call (936)569-6965.

Hide more