Flowers on the Tree of Life


Book Description

Genetic and molecular studies have recently come to dominate botanical research at the expense of more traditional morphological approaches. This broad introduction to modern flower systematics demonstrates the great potential that floral morphology has to complement molecular data in phylogenetic and evolutionary investigations. Contributions from experts in floral morphology and evolution take the reader through examples of how flowers have diversified in a large variety of lineages of extant and fossil flowering plants. They explore angiosperm origins and the early evolution of flowers and analyse the significance of morphological characters for phylogenetic reconstructions on the tree of life. The importance of integrating morphology into modern botanical research is highlighted through case studies exploring specific plant groups where morphological investigations are having a major impact. Examples include the clarification of phylogenetic relationships and understanding the significance and evolution of specific floral characters, such as pollination mechanisms and stamen and carpel numbers.




The Life of Plants


Book Description

We barely talk about them and seldom know their names. Philosophy has always overlooked them; even biology considers them as mere decoration on the tree of life. And yet plants give life to the Earth: they produce the atmosphere that surrounds us, they are the origin of the oxygen that animates us. Plants embody the most direct, elementary connection that life can establish with the world. In this highly original book, Emanuele Coccia argues that, as the very creator of atmosphere, plants occupy the fundamental position from which we should analyze all elements of life. From this standpoint, we can no longer perceive the world as a simple collection of objects or as a universal space containing all things, but as the site of a veritable metaphysical mixture. Since our atmosphere is rendered possible through plants alone, life only perpetuates itself through the very circle of consumption undertaken by plants. In other words, life exists only insofar as it consumes other life, removing any moral or ethical considerations from the equation. In contrast to trends of thought that discuss nature and the cosmos in general terms, Coccia’s account brings the infinitely small together with the infinitely big, offering a radical redefinition of the place of humanity within the realm of life.




Seeing Flowers


Book Description

We’ve all seen red roses, blue irises, and yellow daffodils. But when we really look closely at a flower, whole new worlds of beauty and intricacy emerge. Using a unique process that far surpasses conventional macro photography, Robert Llewellyn shows us details that few of us have ever seen: the amazing architecture of stamens and pistils; the subtle shadings on a petal; the secret recesses of nectar tubes. Complementing Llewellyn’s stunning photographs are Teri Dunn Chace’s lyrical, illuminating essays. By highlighting the features that distinguish twenty-eight of the most common families of flowering plants, Chace gives us fascinating insights into the natural history of flowers, such as the relationship between pollinators and floral form and color. At the same time she gives us a deeper appreciation of why and how flowers have become so deeply embedded in human culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, a gardener, a photography buff, or someone who simply responds to the timeless beauty and variety of the floral world, Seeing Flowers will be a source of enduring delight.







My Life in Plants


Book Description

A “beautifully illustrated memoir, a deeply personal remembrance about the navigation into adulthood and the plants along the way. Touching and relatable.” (Lori Roberts, author of A Life of Gratitude) From Katie Vaz, author of Don’t Worry, Eat Cake, the beloved Make Yourself Cozy, and The Escape Manual for Introverts, comes My Life in Plants. Her newest book tells the story of her life through the thirty-nine plants that have played both leading and supporting roles, from her childhood to her wedding day. Plants include a homegrown wildflower bouquet wrapped in duct tape that she carried on stage at age three, to a fragrant basil plant that brought her and her kitchen back to life after grief. The stories are personal, poignant, heartwarming, and relatable, and will prompt readers to recall plants of their own that have been witness to both the amazing moments of life and the ordinary ones. This illustrated memoir covers the simplicity of home, the sharpness of loss, the lesson of learning to be present, and the journey of finding your way




Tree of Life


Book Description

In the serene moments of meditation, profound experiences can unfold, revealing pathways to inner wisdom and healing energies. It was during one such introspective session, in the quiet confines of my car, that I encountered the extraordinary and vivid presence of what I would come to know as the Tree of Life energy. Though unconventional, my choice of meditation space allowed me to tap into a wellspring of inspiration that would become the foundation of this transformative journey. Encountering the Tree of Life Energy As I delved into the stillness of meditation, a magnificent image emerged in the theater of my mind—an expansive tree, resplendent with roots that delved deep into the earth, a sturdy trunk, flourishing leaves, and fruits radiating with an otherworldly golden glow. This tree, bathed in celestial light, became a beacon of energy and insight. Each element of this vision spoke to me in a language beyond words, conveying a profound connection to the essence of life itself. The Purpose of "Embracing the Tree of Life" In sharing this deeply personal encounter, "Embracing the Tree of Life" aims to be more than just a guide—it is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey. This book unfolds the mystique surrounding the Tree of Life energy, offering readers a roadmap to self-discovery, healing, and spiritual growth. It serves as a testament to the idea that within the stillness of our own beings, profound insights and transformative energies can blossom. Guiding Readers Through a Transformative Journey: 1. Rooted Beginnings: Healing the Root Chakra · The journey commences by exploring the roots, symbolizing our foundational aspects. Through meditation techniques, we delve into the root chakra, nurturing the very essence of our existence. 2. Sacred Blooms: Activating the Sacral Chakra · The journey unfolds with the blooming of flowers, representing the sacral chakra. Practical exercises guide readers through the realm of emotions, creativity, and sensuality, fostering healing and activation. 3. Nourishing Trunk: Solar Plexus Chakra Insights · The trunk, a steadfast supporter, becomes a metaphor for the solar plexus chakra. Through meditation practices, readers learn to nourish their inner fire, promoting confidence, personal power, and vitality. 4. Heartfelt Leaves: Cultivating the Heart Chakra · Green leaves dance in the breeze, embodying the heart chakra. Exercises encourage readers to open their hearts, fostering love, compassion, and connection. 5. Empowering Fruits: Throat Chakra Wisdom · Fruits, representing the throat chakra, inspire readers to harness the power of words. Techniques empower individuals to express themselves with wisdom and authenticity. 6. Seed of Vision: Awakening the Third Eye · The journey ascends to the seed, symbolizing the third eye. Meditation practices guide readers to see beyond the ordinary, awakening intuition and insight. 7. Crowning Glory: Connecting with the Crown Chakra · The overarching structure of the tree mirrors the crown chakra. Readers are led through meditations to connect with higher consciousness, fostering spiritual awakening. 8. Unified Energy System: Holistic Well-being · The interconnected energy system of the chakras and the Tree of Life is explored, providing insights into balancing and harmonizing mind, body, and spirit. 9. Practical Meditation Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide · A comprehensive guide unfolds, offering diverse meditation techniques tailored to align with the introduced energy healing system. 10. Personal Reflections: Navigating the Journey Within · Personal reflections share intimate experiences, encouraging readers to embark on their unique introspective journeys. 11. Conclusion: Embracing the Tree of Life · The journey culminates in a reflective conclusion, summarizing key concepts and inspiring readers to continue exploring the transformative energies of the Tree of Life in their spiritual practices. In "Embracing the Tree of Life," readers are beckoned to traverse the intricate landscape of their inner selves, guided by the wisdom of a visionary tree. Through shared experiences, practical exercises, and a comprehensive guide to meditation, this book endeavors to be a companion on the path to self-discovery and transformation. As the pages unfold, may readers find inspiration, healing, and a profound connection to the timeless energy of the Tree of Life.




Tree of Life


Book Description

A dazzling and stunningly illustrated introduction to the diversity of life on our planet.




Flora


Book Description

Let the experts at the Royal Botanic Gardens guide you around the beautiful and mysterious world that is the plant kingdom. From regulating the air we breathe to providing food, clothes, fuels, and medicines - plants are fundamental to our lives. Discover an extraordinary diversity of species, which includes a grass that grows a meter a day, roots that breathe air, and "queen of the night" cactuses whose rare blooms vanish before dawn. In a combination of art and science, Flora celebrates plants from majestic trees to microscopic algae, explaining how they germinate, grow, and reproduce. It presents species that have evolved to accommodate pollinating insects such as the foxglove, and plants that have adapted to flourish in even the most hostile of habitats. Pierre-Joseph Redoute in the 18th-century was described as the "Raphael of flowers". Flora showcases his botanical paintings as well as those of Georg Ehret and others in this gorgeous visual celebration of plants through the ages. Whether you are a keen gardener, naturalist, or botany student, this beautiful book is a treat that will entice, inform, and amaze.




In Defense of Plants


Book Description

The Study of Plants in a Whole New Light “Matt Candeias succeeds in evoking the wonder of plants with wit and wisdom.” ―James T. Costa, PhD, executive director, Highlands Biological Station and author of Darwin's Backyard #1 New Release in Nature & Ecology, Plants, Botany, Horticulture, Trees, Biological Sciences, and Nature Writing & Essays In his debut book, internationally-recognized blogger and podcaster Matt Candeias celebrates the nature of plants and the extraordinary world of plant organisms. A botanist’s defense. Since his early days of plant restoration, this amateur plant scientist has been enchanted with flora and the greater environmental ecology of the planet. Now, he looks at the study of plants through the lens of his ever-growing houseplant collection. Using gardening, houseplants, and examples of plants around you, In Defense of Plants changes your relationship with the world from the comfort of your windowsill. The ruthless, horny, and wonderful nature of plants. Understand how plants evolve and live on Earth with a never-before-seen look into their daily drama. Inside, Candeias explores the incredible ways plants live, fight, have sex, and conquer new territory. Whether a blossoming botanist or a professional plant scientist, In Defense of Plants is for anyone who sees plants as more than just static backdrops to more charismatic life forms. In this easily accessible introduction to the incredible world of plants, you’ll find: • Fantastic botanical histories and plant symbolism • Passionate stories of flora diversity and scientific names of plant organisms • Personal tales of plantsman discovery through the study of plants If you enjoyed books like The Botany of Desire, What a Plant Knows, or The Soul of an Octopus, then you’ll love In Defense of Plants.




Reforesting Faith


Book Description

This groundbreaking walk through Scripture by former physician and carpenter Dr. Matthew Sleeth makes the convincing case that trees reveal more about God and faith than you ever imagined. “Christians looking to reconnect to the natural world will relish Sleeth’s passionate call to Christian stewardship of the Earth.”—Publishers Weekly Fifteen years ago, Matthew Sleeth believed that science and logic held the answers to everything. But when tragedy struck, he opened the Bible for the first time and was surprised to find that God chose to tell the gospel story through a trail of trees. There’s a tree on the first page of Genesis, in the first psalm, on the first page of the New Testament, and on the last page of Revelation. The Bible’s wisdom is referred to as a tree of life. Every major biblical character and every major theological event has a tree marking the spot. A tree was the only thing that could kill Jesus—and the only thing Jesus ever harmed. Reforesting Faith is the rare book that builds bridges by connecting those who love the Creator with creation and those who love creation with the Creator. Join Dr. Sleeth as he explores the wonders of life, death, and rebirth through the trail of trees in Scripture. Once you discover the hidden language of trees, your walk through the woods—and through Scripture—will never be the same.