Lives of conifers. A comparative account of the coniferous trees. 2009. col. illus. XII, 276 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

Dominant throughout the temperate northern hemisphere, conifers form the backbone of boreal ecosystems. This comprehensive reference work explains the complex life cycles of these trees. The author provides an illustrated, guided tour of conifers from seed and reproduction to old age and death. Focusing on the most common species, the author offers a clear picture of conifers, a type of tree that plays a vital role in various environmental systems and upon which humankind relies for its lifestyle. The engaging text is peppered throughout with interesting facts and comparative data about well- and lesser-known species. The book features morphological, anatomical, and physiological information about the evergreens. The book includes a glossary of terms and a detailed bibliography for further study.