Author(s): Tony Foster

Gardening

Plant Heritage New Zealand looks at the unique characteristics of New Zealand's plants, what makes them so special. It delves into the origins and evolution of the plants, how they have inspired songs, poems and works of art, Maori myths, stories and proverbs associated with them, and their many uses as a natural resource. Part 1 introduces us to the nature of New Zealand's extraordinary plants. Here we learn about speciation, taxonomy, growing and dispersal patterns, and what exactly makes a plant a New Zealand plant? How have plants grown and adapted in New Zealand's very distinctive climate? Part 2, the main section of the book, presents a selection of trees, shrubs and flowers, their classification, names, botanical description, traditional and modern uses, cultural heritage and significance to Maori. Stunning photography highlights the beauty of the plants, as well as helping with identification. In Plant Heritage New Zealand, Tony Foster provides us with an accessible and reliable resource on the character of New Zealand's plantlife - a work to cherish for years to come.