The History of Kew. 2nd rev. & updated ed. 2007. illus. IX, 476 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

This new edition of the classic work The History of the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew is the definitive history of the wolrd's greatest botanic gardens. Comprehensivelyrevised, this stunning, richlyillustrated reference takes in every aspect of Kews history over two centuries from its origin, pivotal roles in collecting, classifying and identifying the world's plants, the commercial crops it gave to the British Empire, to being a world renowned institution at the cutting edge of plant science. Kews heritage - the herbarium, art and architecture, from Kew Palace and Burton'sgreat Palm House to the Princess of Wales Conservatory, state of the artlaboratories and newDavies Alpine House is illustrated and described,together with the events leading to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2003. Lastly, it is a social history of the Gardens, and of the scientists, architects, designers and gardeners who have made Kew. Detailed appendices and bibliography have been updated, and two new chapters added, bringing the book up to date as the authoritative reference work on Kew, its history and function.