Rare Orchids

Rare Orchids by Kalman, Bela. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780821225677.

Exotic and breathtakingly beautiful, orchids are one of the largest families of flowering plants on earth and easily the most diverse. Professional photographer Bela Kalman spent more than three years shooting thousands of plants exclusively for Rare Orchids -- images of new hybrids, obscure specimens, and classic blooms in all their glory. This spectacular book features more than 120 species and named varieties, from the native North American ladys slipper to greenhouse cymbidiums, florists miltonias, corsage cattleyas, collectors paphiopedilums, and windowsill moth orchids. Captions give specifics and anecdotes about each orchid, and essays on the history and mystique of orchids and the complex, lengthy process of hybridization round out the book. Avid hobbyists maintain orchid societies in nearly every American city. Confirmed enthusiasts, would-be growers, and anyone who delights in the splendor of these lovely flowers will welcome Rare Orchids.