Hibiscus

Hardy and Tropical Plants for the Garden

by Barbara Perry Lawton

Timber Press, 2004 [First Edition], ISBN 088192654, colour photographic plates, black and white illustrations, hardcover, dustjacket

Near Fine Condition, minor edge and shelf wear, no inscriptions, dustjacket shows a little edge and shelf wear with a little rubbing, bumping and chipping (see photographs)

“Here is the only book that covers the species and cultivars of the genus Hibiscus completely and in detail.
Barbara Perry Lawton surveys both kinds of hibiscus: the tropical, subtropical, and warm-temperate plants whose pure, clean colours are such grand assets to modern gardens and homes, as well as the hardy perennials and shrubs that thrive in spite of snow, ice, drought, flood, or poor soil, bearing bright flowers year after year.  These classic flowers have a long and fascinating history.  The book contains chapters that chronicle the history and traditions of their use in addition to those Hibiscus relatives such as hollyhocks, okra, and one of the world’s major crops – cotton.
With more than 200 species, there is great diversity in the genus Hibiscus.  This variety has been drawn on and increased through selection and breeding by generations of hibiscus enthusiasts.  Lawton introduces all gardeners, expert and novice alike, to the possibilities offered by these plants.
In addition to covering the distinctive forms of different hibiscuses, she provides information on the various aspects of their cultivation, including propagation.  A photographic gallery of hibiscus illustrated the richness of the many species and cultivars from which the gardener may choose.”