Native Plants of the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 500 Species for the Garden

The sheer number of beautiful photographs in this volume provide an excellent way for readers to browse and become inspired by the beauty of native Midwest plants. Containing a handful of introductory chapters on the history and complexity of the Midwest landscape, the first part of this book resembles a gardening memoir and might confuse readers looking for specific recommendations. Branhagen (director of horticulture, Powell Gardens; The Gardener's Butterfly Book), a landscape architect by training, delivers practical advice for native plant selection and placement; for example, "Design with Native Plants" is an excellent introduction to the process of inventory, analysis, and scheme. The remainder of this book is comprised of plant profiles categorized by type; the author does not attempt to profile all native Midwestern plants but instead provides "descriptions and photographs of the most garden- and landscape-worthy Midwestern native plants…. A compilation of the best native plants for gardening and landscaping."