Green Flowers

March 1, 2009
Changing the misperception that green is merely a foliage color, this high-quality alphabetical plant directory is even more browsable and attractive than previous Timber Press offerings focusing on single colors (e.g., Jo Ann Gardner and Karen Bussolini's "Elegant Silvers: Striking Plants for Every Garden" and Robert Geneve's "A Book of Blue Flowers"). Dramatic, full-page photos illustrate entries that include a general description followed by helpful subheadings: "Care and Cultivation," "Uses," and "Other Recommendations." A sidebar conveniently summarizes requirements. Facts about featured perennials, annuals, bulbs, shrubs, and orchids are subtly included in the margins. Hoblyn, who's written about gardens for British journals, does not include an overview of design principles or sample planting diagrams as Joan Clifton does in "Making a White Garden". Those seeking a general discussion of designing with color can supplement this book with something like "P. Allen Smith's Colors for the Garden: Creating Compelling Color Themes". Hoblyn's title is recommended for all gardening collections.Bonnie L. Poquette, Milwaukee

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