The genus Gladiolus has fascinated plant collectors, taxonomists and the general public for centuries. Known for their spectacular flowers, these highly adapted and specialised plants occur throughout Africa, Madagascar, Europe and the Middle East. South Africa is home to more than half of the world’s Gladiolus species and the Western Cape is the heart of species diversity. Saunders’ Field Guide to Gladioli of South Africa is the first of its kind to offer a complete photographic record of the 166 species that occur in the region. Posthumously completed, this book is the culmination of the Saunders’ long search to find and photograph every known species of Gladiolus in South Africa. It includes: An introduction comprising a brief history of gladioli, information about the morphology and taxonomy of the genus, and guidelines for use in the field. Detailed descriptions of the main floral parts of each species, along with information about ecology, pollinators, similar species and conservation status; field notes were written by Rachel Saunders. Over 1,000 exquisite photographs taken in situ detailing morphology and habitat. Up-to-date distribution maps indicating where species have been recorded. A glossary of terms with illustrations unpacking difficult terminology. A coveted record of the life’s work of a couple who contributed to botany and horticulture in South Africa; it will be treasured by anyone with an interest in these magnificent flowers. Sales points: Accessible coverage of all known gladioli in South Africa; identification at a glance; full-colour photographs of all species described; expert authors.

Gladioli are showy bulbous plants that fall within the Iris family, and the bulk of species are endemic to South Africa. This comprehensive guide, lavishly illustrated with more than 1,100 full-color photographs, covers the 166 Gladiolus species known to occur in the region.

Egyptian hieroglyphs, Chinese scrolls, and Ayurvedic literature record physicians administering aromatic oils to their patients. Today society looks to science to document health choices and the oils do not disappoint. The growing body of evidence of their efficacy for more than just scenting a room underscores the need for production standards, quality control parameters for raw materials and finished products, and well-defined Good Manufacturing Practices. Edited by two renowned experts, the Handbook of Essential Oils covers all aspects of essential oils from chemistry, pharmacology, and biological activity, to production and trade, to uses and regulation. Bringing together significant research and market profiles, this comprehensive handbook provides a much-needed compilation of information related to the development, use, and marketing of essential oils, including their chemistry and biochemistry. A select group of authoritative experts explores the historical, biological, regulatory, and microbial aspects. This reference also covers sources, production, analysis, storage, and transport of oils as well as aromatherapy, pharmacology, toxicology, and metabolism. It includes discussions of biological activity testing, results of antimicrobial and antioxidant tests, and penetration-enhancing activities useful in drug delivery. New information on essential oils may lead to an increased understanding of their multidimensional uses and better, more ecologically friendly production methods. Reflecting the immense developments in scientific knowledge available on essential oils, this book brings multidisciplinary coverage of essential oils into one all-inclusive resource.

Our family of animals, like the loaves and fishes, was showing a distinct tendency to divide and multiply... Initially we had tried rather half-heartedly to find homes for Carrots and Philby but after a few weeks we decided that they weren't going anywhere. They belonged with us. Suddenly we had five dogs and four cats, no longer such an even number...' In the first five years of their married life, Chrystal Sharp and her veterinarian husband encounter a variety of different creatures - feathered, furred and even scaled. Some pass through their lives, while others insert a toe in the door and hang on tooth and nail. Often literally. With many of them coming from what social workers might describe s 'dysfunctional backgrounds', a fair amount of chaos is to be expected. There is the greyhound who, unlike Greta Garbo, does not want to be alone. Then there are the cats - one suffering from delusions of grandeur, an epileptic, a snake collector and another recently discharged from a reformatory - not to mention peacocks of royal lineage, oiled penguins and a lost albatross. These are but a few of the creatures who find their way into the couple's home - and their hearts. A delightful and heart-warming book, If The Cat Fits... will appeal to animal lovers of all ages.

Limits and Renewals, Kipling's last collection of short stories, was written shortly after the death of his only son. Dark and penetrating in tone, these are brilliant portraits of a soul in torment with some welcome relief coming in the tales of 'Aunt Ellen' and 'The Miracle of Saint Jubanus'.

Of the world's 4,000 to 4,500 mammal species, about 1,100 occur in Africa. In this updated and revised edition of Field Guide to the Larger Mammals of Africa, authors Chris and Tilde Stuart concentrate on the more visible and easily distinguished larger mammal species, plus some of the more frequently seen smaller mammals. In all, over 400 color photographs, combined with concise, pertinent information highlighting the diagnostic features of each species, provide a comprehensive source of information on each mammal. The latest information has been incorporated and the distribution maps have been revised to reflect the most up-to-date habitat and distribution patterns for each species. A new feature is the inclusion of the mammals' skulls, grouped together at the back of the book. To aid the reader, color-coding and symbols indicating the habitat and activity period serve as a quick reference to the various mammal groups.

The Flexitarian Foodie is a collection of proudly South African, budget approved, family-friendly recipes that show how achievable it is to eat delicious real food and live consciously and mindfully, no matter the situation. With just a few tweaks, even the most carnivorous amongst us can be convinced that eating more veggies and less meat is attainable and enjoyable. Eating and living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn’t have to be a complicated, expensive, big-life change – in fact, with just a few simple changes it can be accessible to everyone wanting to improve their health and the health of our planet.