This is the only comprehensive account of all eight species in the genus Adansonia. It describes the historical background from the late Roman period to the present. It covers the extraordinary variety of economic uses of baobabs. There are also appendices on vernacular names, gazetteer, economics, nutrition and forest mensuration. This book fills a gap in the botanical literature. It deals with a genus that has fascinated and intrigued scientists and lay persons for centuries.

This volume provides the origins and meanings of the names of genera and species of extant vascular plants, with the genera arranged alphabetically from D to L.

Appendix 3, 1890 contains Index to Kew reports, covering 1862-82.