This major work, first published in 1950, is still considered the classic book on the subject. It provides a comprehensive, critical and well-illustrated survey of the portrayal of plants across over three thousand years, at a more compact size. Of the first edition, the poet and gardening writer, Vita Sackville-West said: "Let no one think this is a book only for the specialist. It is essential for the specialist, certainly, but it is also for all the flower-lovers and all those who enjoy the by-ways of biography and the added attraction of good writing". This edition contains 126 colour plates (more than twice as many as the first edition), alongside 140 black-and-white illustrations. It invites the reader to appreciate the works of the greatest botanical illustrators both past and present.

From remote times onwards people have sought to vary and enliven the flavour of their staple foods or disguise the taste by adding pungent herbs and spices. This practical guide deals with the herbs from the outdoor garden which can be used in the kitchen for spicing foods or added to salads.