There really isn't a single best
field guide for Florida plants. To cover the more than
3,500 species of flowering plants in Florida, the
well-equipped naturalist needs several books. This handy
6" X 9" 320-page guide is one of them. 574
species of flowering plants are illustrated with
beautiful color photographs, most taken by Dr. Taylor, a
distinguished biology professor at the University of
Central Florida in Orlando. Each entry includes the
common name; scientific name and authority; family name
(botanical and common); description of the flower;
description of the leaves; habitat; distribution in
Florida; flowering season; and a comment section that
provides additional information and highlights important
identifying characteristics. The entries are grouped by
flower color, which is great for beginners and makes for
quick field identification. The introduction is
especially useful with descriptions and gorgeous photos
of Florida's wildflower habitats, and an illustrated
dictionary of flower, fruit, and leaf characteristics and
the botanical terms used to describe them. The index is
thorough but you may need a hand lens!
