The Curious World of Carnivorous Plants

A Comprehensive Guide to Their Biology and Cultivation

Plants that trap and eat animals have inspired awe since before the days of Darwin. Lured into the danger zone by optical, tactile, and olfactory strategies, the prey succumb to ingenious traps and face their doom. But unlike plants that temporarily catch insects for pollination, the true carnivores go considerably further: they digest them for the nutrients they need to survive in extremely inhospitable sites on land and in water. This exquisite, thoroughly up-to-date book, copiously illustrated with closeup photography, provides the first comprehensive listing of some 630 known carnivorous plant species, described in fascinating detail, with identification history, physiology, ecology, and an extensive bibliography. It is an essential reference for hobbyist, naturalist, and collector alike.

Media reviews of this book:

"A curious world, indeed, is brilliantly described in this definitive guide. Expert botanists with wide renown ... have compiled the first comprehensive listing of all 630 known species of so-called flowers of evil. ... Highly recommended for all gardening or reference collections."

—Donna L. Davey, Library Journal, November 2007

"Comprehensive ... a first-rate book for plant lovers and naturalists alike. The photography is superior."

—John Bagnasco, Garden Compass, January/February 2008

"An exquisite book, truly covering both biology and cultivation of carnivorous plants."

—Root Gorelick, Plant Science Bulletin, Winter 2008

"Has a decidedly international outlook, giving an overview of the amazing worldwide diversity of carnivorous plants. Perhaps its most noteworthy features are the many crystal-clear close-up color images of the plants, most of which are quite attractive to humans as well as to insects!"

—HortIdeas, November/December 2007