The Complete Language of Trees: A Definitive and Illustrated History

The Complete Language of Trees is a comprehensive encyclopedia that provides meanings, powers, facts, and folklore for over 400 types of trees. It includes a stunning visual depiction, scientific and common names, characteristics, and historic and hidden properties from mythology, legends, and folklore. The book also offers a spiritual connection with trees that exceeds visual perception, improving mental and physical wellness.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Wellfleet Press,U.S.

The Complete Language of Trees is a comprehensive encyclopedia that delves into the meanings, powers, facts, and folklore of over 400 tree species. This remarkable resource not only presents stunning visual representations of each tree but also provides detailed entries that encompass the scientific and common names, characteristics, and historical and hidden properties derived from mythology, legends, and folklore.

Within the pages of this encyclopedia, readers will discover a wealth of information about the lore of trees. For instance, the Hackberry Tree is believed to encourage individuals to strive for excellence in their endeavors, while the Manchineel Tree possesses such toxic properties that the smoke from a burning tree can cause blindness. During medieval times, the bark from the Bird Cherry Tree was used to ward off plague, and Washi paper is crafted from the inner bark of the Paper Mulberry Tree.

One remarkable example is the Pando, a Quaking Aspen colony that spans an impressive 108 acres (approximately the size of 83 football fields!). Technically, it is considered one tree, showcasing the extraordinary nature of some tree species. By developing a spiritual connection with a tree, one can transcend visual perception and gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and value. This connection has the potential to enhance mental and physical wellness, aligning with the tradition of floriographies, which have been renowned for regulating human emotions and providing depth, symbolism, and meaning to the delicate aspects of nature.

Following the success of The Complete Language of Herbs and its predecessor, The Complete Language of Flowers, author S. Theresa Dietz has continued this tradition with The Complete Language of Trees. Coupled with two comprehensive indexes—one for searching by common tree names and the other organized by meanings—Dietz cleverly connects quality time in nature with the overall improvement of mental health. This dictionary serves as a valuable resource for gardeners, environmentalists, and nature lovers alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the trees that surround us and the rich tapestry of folklore and mythology associated with them.

Weight: 1054g
Dimension: 260 x 210 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781577153306