Orchids: Botanical Portraits: Beauty, Natural History, Botany

A richly photographed presentation of over a hundred highly prized, rare, and unusual orchids. For centuries, the orchid family (Orchidaceae) has enjoyed a special status among botanists and collectors. With over 25,000 species across six continents, their remarkable taxonomic diversity—showcasing dazzling variations in color, form, and adaptation—makes them one of the most coveted living treasures. The renowned floral designer, photographer, and dedicated plantsman invites readers into the complex, beautiful, and often surprising world of orchids. This book showcases in full color some of the most exceptional orchid species from across the globe, with notes on what makes each botanically important or unique. An artistic photographic approach reveals the structure of each flower, bringing pattern, scale, and form into focus through a deconstructed view—a vibrant modern homage to classic herbarium plates.