Collectors' Edition: 630 pages, illustrated throughout with colour photographs and distribution maps, maps on the endpapers, half maroon morocco with matching marbled paper sides, contained in a grey cloth and marbled paper slip case (top corner bumped) - binding and case by Peter Carstens, a very good copy.
Presentation label on the front free endpaper: Presented to Stephan & Ilse Wentzel. In appreciation of your support which has made possible the publication of "Wild Flowers of KwaZulu-Natal & the Eastern Region." Signed by the Chairman and Author. Durban, September 1998
From the Foreword by Brian J. Huntley, Chief Executive: National Botanical Institute. 'The eastern provinces of South Africa, from the shores of the Indian Ocean to the peaks of the Drakensberg from the Kei to the Limpopo, encompass an astounding diversity of habitats, fauna and flora. This natural wealth has been valued and utilised for centuries, most significantly in the long history of traditional medicine and magical practice of the Zulu people.
'The European settlers that came to the region in the mid nineteenth century soon recognised the natural beauty of the country. Early travellers and botanical collectors were amazed at the richness of the grasslands, savannas and forests of the often hot, drought prone hills and valleys. The grasslands, in particular, produced a delightful show of colour after early spring veld fires, a sight which has become increasingly difficult to witness as agricultural, industrial and urban development has overtaken our countryside.
'Although this book also includes the flowers of Lesotho, Swaziland, southern Mozambique and the eastern parts of the Free State, Gauteng and Mpumalanga, there are three important 'hot spots' of botanical diversity in the region- the Drakensberg, Maputaland and Pondoland centres- which are now internationally recognised.
'The flora of these areas is being surveyed by bio-prospectors for use in pharmaceutical development and by horticulturists for the massive global trade in cut-flower and bedding plants.'
- Overall Condition: Fine
- Size: 8vo (220 x 150 mm)
