This handbook, consisting of six volumes, covers over 9000 taxa of succulents (excluding cacti), which have the ability to store water in their stems, leaves, or underground organs. In addition to the volumes on Monocotyledons and Dicotyledons, separate volumes are devoted to those families with predominantly succulent members, which show an especially great diversity, namely Aizoaceae, Asclepiadaceae and Crassulaceae. Following an alphabetical listing of families, genera and species, detailed descriptions are given, including the taxonomy with synonyms, data on the distribution and ecology, references, and keys to genera, species or subspecies. Over 2000 superb colour photographs complete this inventory of succulent plants.

Aloes are a large genus of plants, about 450 species, that have been used as medicinal plants since ancient times. Many species are widespread in warm or tropical semi-arid regions, while others live in desert or wet mountain regions. Scientists have yet to discover the full biological activity of the many aloe compounds. Aloes: The genus Aloes reviews all botanical, chemical, biochemical and medical information as well as the commercial aspects of aloes. It guides researchers in botany, natural product chemistry, pharmacology, dermatology and immunology. The present volume brings together a wealth of information on aloes from a variety of sources, including seldom-recorded folk customs.

Cacti and Succulents Handbook is your guide to the selection and cultivation of these diverse and fascinating plants. Appealing to both the novice and experienced gardener, this book provides a directory of more than 140 common species and varieties.