| |
Snowdrops is the definitive work
of reference for the genus Galanthus, describing both wild species and horticultural cultivars in an easily accessible
way. Written over a five year period during which almost every cultivar mentioned was observed and its details
recorded by the authors, it is an authoritative record of over 500 Galanthus cultivars. Each is fully described,
and its thoroughly researched history is given. Complementing the histories is a chapter on eminent galanthophiles
of the past. Other chapters cover the cultivation and conservation of snowdrops, and an appendix lists the addresses
of snowdrop sources and gardens open to the public.
Snowdrops is lavishly illustrated by fine photographs, especially the portraits of snowdrop cultivars taken by
the principal author, Matt Bishop. Special end-papers, using a design by John Morley, are another feature of this
attractively-designed book. It is the first publication by the Griffin Press.
The authors have all been committed galanthophiles for many years, and grow a wide range of snowdrops in their
own gardens. Matt Bishop has a unique knowledge of snowdrop cultivars, of which he grows a large number in his
Hampshire woodland garden, together with ferns and other choice plants. He is Head Gardener on a private estate.
Aaron Davis, a taxonomist at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wrote The Genus Galanthus (Timber Press, 1999) and
has travelled extensively in search of wild snowdrops. His chapter on wild snowdrops updates his previous work
and focuses on the ecology and variation of wild Galanthus. John Grimshaw has wide horticultural and botanical
interests, and is now Gardens Manager at Colesbourne Park. He edited Snowdrops and contributed the chapter on galanthophiles.
Snowdrops was launched on February 2, 2002, at a reception held at Colesbourne Park, Gloucestershire. It has received
wide acclaim from the public and press, proving to be so popular that the first printing sold out within a few
weeks. It has been reprinted for the 2003 snowdrop season, and is again proving to be very much in demand.
For more information please contact the Griffin Press at the above address.
Snowdrops is available from the Griffin Press for £45. Trade terms are available.
|
|