Nature's Palette. The Science of Plant Color. 2007. 438 col. photogr. 31 b/w figs. 83 line - figs. XVI, 409 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

A highly illustrated, immensely entertaining exploration of the science of plant color. Beginning with potent reminders of how deeply interwoven plant colors are with human life and culturefrom the shifting hues that told early humans when fruits and vegetables were edible to the indigo dyes that signified royalty for later generations, the book moves easily through details of pigments, the evolution of color perception, the nature of light, and dozens of other topics.

Through a narrative peppered with anecdotes of a life spent pursuing botanical knowledge around the world, the author reveals the profound ways that efforts to understand and exploit plant color have influenced every sphere of human life, from organic chemistry to Renaissance painting to the highly lucrative orchid trade. Lavishly illustrated and packed with remarkable details sure to delight gardeners and naturalists alike, Nature's Palette will enchant anyone who has ever wondered about red roses and blue violets - or green thumbs.