Madeline Harley Knihy

A remarkable collaboration of nature, art and photography, celebrating the beauty of fruit.The landmark books Seeds and Pollen were published in 2006 to rave reviews-with adjectives ranging from "breathtaking" to "spectacular," from "spellbinding" to "dazzling."This companion title examines why fruits exist and how their short lives are critical to the natural order. Visual artist Rob Kesseler uses special light and scanning electron microscopy to create astonishing images of a variety of fruits and the seeds they shelter. His razor-sharp cross-sections reveal intricate interiors and pods, pouches, keys, nuts and other examples of botanical architecture. Seed morphologist Wolfgang Stuppy deftly explains the formation, development and demise of fruit. Literary, historical and artistic references to fruit are included as well.Fruit is groundbreaking in its intimate examination of plant reproduction. An essential source and reference for artists, designers and gardeners, this stunning book will fascinate any reader interested in the natural world and biological structures.(200910)

The extraordinary beauty and structure of pollen grains invisible to the naked eye. This book is the result of the shared fascination of an artist and a scientist with the perfect design of organisms too small to be seen without a microscope. It is suitable for scientists, artists and photographers alike.

Botanist Madeline Harley pairs clear, informative descriptions with exquisite photographs to provide unsurpassed coverage of almost 200 British weedy species. Now, for the first time, enthusiasts and non- specialists alike will be able to confidently identify these underappreciated plants.

Science and art collaborate to reveal a stunning, even sensual, microscopic world. Three landmark books -- Pollen , Seeds and Fruit -- were published in 2006 and 2008 to rave "breathtaking," "ravishing," "spectacular," "enlightening," "truly revelatory" and "beautiful almost beyond description." In The Bizarre and Incredible World of Plants , the authors bring the best of these books together in one volume that is a fascinating union of art and science. Visual artist Rob Kesseler uses special light techniques and scanning electron microscopy to create astonishing images of a variety of pollens, seeds and fruits. His razor-sharp cross sections reveal intricate interiors, pods, pouches, keys and other examples of botanical architecture and seed dispersal. Seed morphologist Wolfgang Stuppy and palynologist Madeline Harley deftly explain the botanical purposes of the pollens, seeds and fruit, how they fulfill their missions and their roles in preserving the biodiversity of our planet. Literary references to plant reproduction are featured along with early botanical illustrations. The Bizarre and Incredible World of Plants is groundbreaking in its intimate examination of plant reproduction. It is an essential reference for artists, designers and photographers and will fascinate gardeners and general readers.