Beginning with a history of the first introductions to Western horticulture more than 250 years ago and describing the difficult days of learning how to grow orchids, this book continues on with the principals of growing, propagating, and caring for orchids in the temperate regions. Discussions of the environmental conditions found where orchids grow in the wild help to give enthusiasts a clearer understanding of the cultural needs of the plants under cultivation. Some of the orchids described can be grown with success in a conservatory or on a windowsill, others need a greenhouse. The book describes over 500 species and hybrids. Lots of colour illustrations and delightful historical prints.

Over 300 colour photos; Part 1 contains botanical, evolution and historical information on orchids, with an extensive practical section that explains everything the beginner needs to know - heating, ventilation, watering, composts, propagation, pest control, simple breeding and seed raising, exhibiting and corsage-making. Part 2 contains a guide to the major groups of orchids suitable for beginners and amateur growers - specific cultural advice.

This is a facsimle edition of 40 plates from publications 1862 - 1865 by Robert Warner.  With each plate there is one to two pages of text by Benjamin S. Williams. Names etc have been updated to assist in recognising the orchids illustrated.

This edition has been limited to 1000 copies, of which this copy is No 55. This copy has an inscription listing that is has been prepared for Ron J. Williamson. It also has a gilt inscription on the front cover listing that "this book was presented to the Orchid Specie Society by Ron J. Williamson on 19-12-1975".

The book was from the library of the Orchid Species Society Queensland.

Over 300 colour photos; Part 1 contains botanical, evolution and historical information on orchids, with an extensive practical section that explains everything the beginner needs to know - heating, ventilation, watering, composts, propagation, pest control, simple breeding and seed raising, exhibiting and corsage-making. Part 2 contains a guide to the major groups of orchids suitable for beginners and amateur growers - specific cultural advice.