PELARGONIUMS OF SOUTHERN AFRICA [3 volumes]

All three volumes of this celebrated series. 4to; original boards; laminated pictorial dustwrappers; pp. xv + 50 + [50] + [xvi-xix]; xii + 148 + (ii) + [xiii-xvii]; xiii + (i) + 148 + (i) + [xiv-xxvi]; full-colour plates; line drawings; maps. Dustwrappers ever so slightly rubbed, that of third volume a little sunned, those of first and second volume worn at head of spine panels; occasional fox spot. Very good condition.

In all, 150 species are described and illustrated. "The nomenclatural exposition of each species is followed by a formal diagnostic description of the plant. These descriptions are detailed and straightforward, with a limited use of technical terms. Areas of distribution are discussed, together with notes on historical backgrounds and cultivation. Growth requirements have been personally studied by the authors and in most cases the plants have been grown and observed in the Botanic Garden at the University of Stellenbosch. Each species is accompanied by a magnificent watercolour painting by Ellaphie Ward-Hilhorst, who must rank among the top botanical artists in the country. There are also pencil habit sketches drawn superbly well by this renowned artist. In some instances this is the first time that these plants have been reproduced in colour anywhere." - From the foreword to the third volume