16 colour photos, 167 B&W photos. A translation of "Flore degli Dei" which delightfully combines where and how orchids grow with how they came to use and why they are important to us.

Part 1 offers a glimpse of the important dates, names, and incidents relevant to the historical role of orchids from ancient times to the recent past.

Part 2 contains biographical sketches of more than 50 significant figures in orchid history and their contributions to the field. A great source of information on the makers of orchid history with details on those who collected, grew, hybridised or studied orchids from Ames to Warszewicz; updated nomenclature with revised and expanded bibliography; 73 black and white illustrations;  a great read.