Steven Hammer et al.
Briza Publications – 1998
Mesembs of the World is a collective work by the world’s leading specialists in Mesembryantemaceae (botanical family Aizoaceae). In 400 pages and some 700 high-quality colour photos, it reveals the magical charm of these plants, which are as surprising as they are sublime.
The discovery of the world of mesembs begins with general information: geographical location, ecology in terms of growth and reproduction in the natural environment, threats of extinction for certain species, local uses for food or medicinal purposes. Finally, a chapter is devoted to growing and propagation conditions indoors and outdoors.
It continues with a detailed presentation of mesembs: an identification key classifies plants according to the shape of their foliage or seed capsules. In this way, 14 groups are identified: weedy mesembs, flat-leaved mesembs, pebble plants, linguiform mesembs, rough-leaved mesembs, toothed-leaved mesembs, clump-growing mesembs, imbricate-leaved mesembs, creeping mesembs, dwarf shrubs, shrubs with glittering leaves, shrubs with Lampranthus-type capsules, shrubs with Ruschia-type capsules, shrubs with Leipoldtia-type capsules.
| Identification of groups |
| Cheiridopsis | Dorotheanthus |
Then, within these groups, each genus is presented in alphabetical order under the following headings: origin of the botanical name, vernacular name, general description of the genus, distinctive characters, flowering period, geographical distribution and ecology, growing conditions and observations.
Finally, all the species in each genus are cited, sometimes with commentary.
It is therefore an exhaustive work, but one that is accessible to everyone, from neophytes to specialists. It is also a wonderful gift for gardeners in the Mediterranean area, who can acclimatise the vast majority of mesembs without any problem.
Review by Michel Gautier – Mediterranean Gardening France