The Savage Garden, Revised

Starred review from July 1, 2013

This long-awaited revision of an award-winning title is sure to entice more hobbyists into the world of carnivorous plants (CPs). Well indexed, the book is primarily a directory of the most popular insect-eating plants with details on their history, habitats, habits, and cultivation. But D'Amato (owner, California Carnivores) intrigues and entertains by recounting a false 1878 report of a man-eating tree, the plots of several horror movies, and information on important CP enthusiasts. He startles readers with rich descriptions of plants from around the world, more than 200 photos, and revelations that CPs lurk in sidewalk cracks of American cities and suburban lawns in Australia. Lengthier than the original, this revision includes numerous plants that have only recently been identified, cultivated, or registered. It has updated comments on conservation and innovations in matters such as lighting, fertilizer, and pest control. The final chapter discusses additional "savage" plants, including some aquatic carnivores and plants considered carnivorous in certain life stages. The book does not touch on the specialty of growing carnivorous fungi as does Wilhelm Barthlott's The Curious World of Carnivorous Plants, a larger format title with a bibliography. VERDICT Highly recommended for anyone fascinated by carnivorous plants.--Bonnie Poquette, Milwaukee

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