This ultimate keep-in-your-pocket guide to Australian orchids is the latest exciting addition to Reed New Holland’s growing series of concise field guides. it may be diminutive in size but it punches well above its weight in terms of usefulness, being packed with more than 350 images. Following an introduction that gives an overview of the subject, the bulk of the book features 195 species accounts of Australian native orchids, including both epiphytes and terrestrial species. Many have evocative names, such as King-in-his-carriage and Spotted Sun Orchid, to match their spectacular blooms. All the most common and widespread species are included, while care has been taken to include representatives from all genera and families present in Australia. The coverage also extends to a range of rarer species. For each species there is at least one photograph showing the orchid and a brief written account listing key ID features for leaves and flowers, size, habit, habitat, range and flowering period. The easy-to-use layouts and small size make the book ideal for taking on days out or walks in the bush. It is perfect for beginners or nature-lovers of an intermediate level, and also for children as a first book on Australian orchids.
