Darwin and the art of botany : observations on the curious world of plants
(Book)

Color illustration on title page.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 361-365) and index.

Charles Darwin is best known for his work on the evolution of animals, but a large part of his scientific study and writing was devoted to plants. This book gathers key excerpts from these lesser-known works for the first time. Each of the 45 short chapters focuses on a different plant species, with Darwin's words about his methods, observations, and conclusions, alongside authoritative interpretation from evolutionary biologist and acclaimed Darwin scholar James T. Costa. Learn how Darwin developed the key concepts that underpin modern research on the form and function of plants. Gain insights into how pollination works, how and why vines climb, the digetive processes of carnivorous plants, and the exuberant variety of flowers. Throughout, you will witness the birth of several schools of scientific inquiry that we take for granted today. Bringing a new and colorful element to Darwin's work, illustrator Bobbi Angell, after choosing the 45 subjects, has expertly selected rare and remarkable period artworks from Oak Spring Garden Foundation, crafting a new lens for the role and value of botanical art as it existed before and during Darwin's time. Darwin and the Art of Botany is an exciting new marriage of art and science, providing a fresh look at one of history's most influential thinkers. --Front flap of dust jacket.