Woodstock, VT: Countrymen Press (2021)

Paperback.

As new.

A charmingly illustrated keepsake and guide to native, wild plants of North America. In this exquisitely detailed naturalist’s handbook, Laura C. Martin provides profiles of 85 wild plants and flowers found across North America, each accompanied by lovingly illustrated and charming watercolor paintings. With dozens of notes, arrows, and details, each chapter encourages the reader to look at the plants as a naturalist would—opening up a whole new way of seeing nature.

Martin gives details on where the plants can be found, how they grow, how to identify them, and what natural properties they each have. The handbook features plants from across North America, including the Purple Coneflower, found along the East Coast from Quebec to Florida, and the Opuntia (prickly pear) cacti found in Mexico and America’s Southwest. In addition to the wildflower profiles, readers will find information on growing native plants, instructions for plant crafts, tips for conservation, and ideas for activities with children. They’ll also discover recipes for teas, herb mixes, tinctures, and salves using the plants described.

Crafts and activities include making dyes, simple baskets, wreaths, and crowns. A Naturalist’s Book of Wildflowers is a gift book and field guide in one, with its treasure trove of handy information and beautiful colored drawings.

Laura C. Martin earned a bachelor's degree in botany from the University of Georgia, worked as a naturalist at Georgia's Callaway Gardens, earned a certificate in botanical art and illustration from the New York Botanical Gardens, and has published twenty-five books.