The Book of Killer Plants: A Field Guide to Nature's Deadliest Creations

A beautifully illustrated field guide to the 60 deadliest plants on Earth, featuring full profiles, toxicity level, and how to spot them. It explores the natural history, relationship with humans, and fatal effects of these plants, and how they developed toxicity to deter herbivores and other predators.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Focus

This captivating guide delves into the realm of Mother Nature's most lethal plants, showcasing their ability to harm both wild animals and even humans. Some of these plants may be lurking in your own backyard, making it essential to be aware of their presence. Presented in an illustrated format, this comprehensive compendium offers detailed profiles of each plant, encompassing fascinating facts, important identifying characteristics, toxicity levels, physiological aspects, the biochemistry of toxins, guidance on spotting them, and much more. Whether you are a botanist, forager, gardener, survivalist, or nature enthusiast, this guide serves as a valuable resource for gaining knowledge and understanding. It empowers you to recognize and avoid these dangerous plants, while also providing essential information should you encounter them.

In this field guide, you will embark on a journey of discovery, learning about the natural history of each plant. Explore the intricate relationship between humanity and these plants throughout history, from their medicinal purposes and cosmetics to their use in rituals and even murder. Uncover the fatal effects these plants have on the body, ranging from organ failure and seizures to skin rashes and nausea. Gain insights into the evolution of poisonous plants, as they developed toxicity as a defense mechanism against herbivores and other predators.

Dive into the captivating world of these stunning but deadly organisms that possess the power to poison, maim, and intoxicate. From the infamous nightshade and hemlock to the mysterious monkshood, oleander, and castor bean, this guide presents a comprehensive exploration of 60 of the world's most life-threatening plants. Each profile offers a fascinating glimpse into the unique characteristics and lethal properties of these plants, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in botany, ecology, or the fascinating interplay between nature and human civilization.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 182 x 119 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781646432691