A Natural History of Ferns

by Robbin C. Moran

A Natural History of Ferns is an entertaining and informative look at why ferns and their relatives are unique among plants. Ferns live in habitats from the tropics to polar latitudes, and unlike seed plants, which endow each seed with the resources to help their offspring, ferns reproduce by minute spores. There are floating ferns, ferns that climb or live on trees, and ferns that are trees. There are poisonous ferns, iridescent ferns, and resurrection ferns that survive desert heat and drought. The relations of ferns and people are equally varied. Moran sheds light on Robinson Crusoe's ferns, the role of ferns in movies, and how ferns get their names. A Natural History of Ferns provides just what is needed for those who wish to grow ferns or observe them in their habitats with greater understanding and appreciation.

Genres: Nature, Nonfiction, Plants, Gardening, Science, Science Nature

302 pages, Hardcover

First published October 15, 2004

Reviews

[Jennifer Hallock · Rating 5 out of 5]

My only complaint with this book was that I was not smart enough to understand the really science-y parts—but the beauty of the book is that you can skip those sentences here and there and still get a really strong understanding of the range, beauty, usefulness, and latest research on ferns. The author has a fantastic ability to translate complex ideas into simple analogies and clear language. All science books should be this good—I might not have gone into the humanities!

[Ben Erlandson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-curated collection of essays by the author, exploring many aspects of the world of ferns. This is one of those books where the reader learns much more across a broad topic area than expected. A pleasant surprise. Be ready to take lots of notes. :)

[Judy Dobles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning a lot from this book.

[Saphira Bloom-Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really nice collection of short chapters covering all aspects of ferns.