Abstract
THE lengthy and somewhat incoherent title cited above is less expressive of the aim of this volume than the abbreviated form which appears upon its cover—viz. “Dictionary of Economic Plants.” Mr. Smith, the veteran ex-curator of Kew Gardens, has brought together a great deal of information with regard to economic plants; and his facts, although sometimes open to criticism if examined in detail, are in the main trustworthy. It is not always easy, however, to reconcile the contents of the volume with its title; interesting as are such plants as the “side-saddle flower” (Sarracenia), “telegraph plant” (Desmodium gyrans), broom rape, wallflower, Virginian creeper, mignonette, and the like, they can hardly be regarded as supplying either the “natural” or the “acquired wants of man.” We have tested the work somewhat carefully, and have in almost every instance found the name we were seeking; and we can therefore say that this Dictionary, although not perhaps particularly needed, may be usefully referred to by those interested in economic botany.
A Dictionary of Popular Names of the Plants which furnish the Natural and Acquired Wants of Man, in all Matters of Domestic and General Economy; their History, Products, and Uses.
By John Smith (London: Macmillan and Co., 1882.)
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Our Book Shelf . Nature 26, 267 (1882). https://doi.org/10.1038/026267a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/026267a0