Over 6,000 plants, an A-Z index of 1,000 English common names (all cross-referenced), and 500 full-color photographs make this the essential plant guide for gardeners. Every entry in this mixture of dictionary and encyclopedia indicates the type and size of the plant, its hardiness, recommended varieties, and growing tips. Most are well known and easy to find at the local nursery, but for those who want something a little more special, there are rarer varieties, too -- and they're worth the search. Bonus: a list of "family names" that breaks down all related genera, including over 170 families of flowering plants, plus ferns and conifers.