Author: Susan K. MacKinnon

Publisher:

Published: 2007

Total Pages: 433

ISBN-13: 9780981459004

"Flowers of the Table Rocks" is a non-technical, comprehensive photographic guide to the flowers of this well-known geologic formation and popular hiking spot in Southwestern Oregon. Although it covers a limited geographic area, the book is likely to appeal to a wider audience because of its many color photographs. These photos include close-ups of microscopic flower parts virtually never seen in field guides. Because of the limited geographic area involved, it is possible for the amateur wildflower enthusiast, with the help of the simplified key, photos, and tables, to identify the more than 300 flowering plant species representing more than 50 plant families found on the Table Rocks. Grasses, rushes and sedges have not been included.Unlike most flower guides, the book is organized by plant family rather than flower color. Plant identification becomes a more rational undertaking when one becomes aware of the similarities between species of a given family. Knowledge of family characteristics also facilitates identification of flowers in areas beyond the Table Rocks. In addition, the book attempts to show how even the most complex flower conforms to the basic floral pattern of sepals, petals, stamens and pistil(s). To make scientific names less intimidating, the derivation or meaning of each species¿ scientific name is listed in table format. Plant status (endangered, threatened, noxious weed, etc), three tables, and a glossary are included.