Prairie Plants of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum: Including Horsetails, Ferns, Rushes, Sedges, Grasses, Shrubs, Vines, Weeds, and Wildflowers

by Theodore S. Cochrane, Claudia S. Lipke (Photographer), Theodore S. Cochrane

     A pioneer and leader in the preservation and restoration of native Midwest prairies since the 1930s, the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum has a stellar collection of prairie plant species, including horsetails, ferns, rushes, sedges, grasses, shrubs, vines, and wildflowers. This guide illustrates and describes more than 360 native and introduced species that grow and bloom on the Arboretum prairies and also briefly discusses or mentions many additional species, infraspecific taxa, and hybrids. Its intent is to increase awareness and respect for remaining small prairie remnants, motivate readers to work for prairie preservation and restoration, and encourage the planting of native species in yards and gardens.
     Botanist and taxonomist Theodore S. Cochrane has written the text to engage a variety of readers: prairie enthusiasts, gardeners, amateur botanists, younger students learning about plants, and college students and professionals. Nomenclature follows in part the new APG classification system. Richly illustrated with detailed color photographs by Claudia S. Lipke and botanical illustrations and maps by Kandis Elliot, the guide provides a beautiful and informative sample of the flora of the Arboretum and of the southern Wisconsin prairie landscape. Many of the plants, of course, are also found throughout the upper Midwestern United States and in adjacent southern Canada. 
    

Genres: Reference

364 pages, Paperback

First published October 20, 2006

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably my favorite plant identification book so far. It has all of the technical terminology you'll find in more advanced books but actually includes pictures of the plants as well as possible look-alikes. This is a great resource if you have some experience with plant ID but want to expand your knowledge.