Wildflowers of Iowa Woodlands (Bur Oak Guide) - Softcover

Runkel, Sylvan T.; Bull, Alvin F.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1587298236 ISBN 13: 9781587298233

Publisher: University Of Iowa Press, 2009

Synopsis

This classic of midwestern natural history is back in print with a new format and new photographs. Originally published in 1979, Wildflowers of Iowa Woodlands introduced many naturalists to the beauty and diversity of the native plants of the wooded communities that once covered more than 6 million acres of the state. Now redesigned with updated names and all-new images, this reliable field companion will introduce woodland wildflowers to a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts in the Upper Midwest.

The species accounts are accompanied by brilliant full-page color photographs by Larry Stone, Thomas Rosburg, and Carl Kurtz. In clear, straightforward, and accessible prose, authors Sylvan Runkel and Alvin Bull provide common, scientific, and family names; the Latin or Greek meaning of the scientific names; habitat and blooming times; and a complete description of plant, flower, and fruit. Particularly interesting is the information on the many ways in which Native Americans and early pioneers used these plants for everything from pain relief to insecticides to tonics.

Iowa’s original savannas, woodlands, and forests were cleared with amazing thoroughness, yet enough beauty and diversity remain to give joy to hikers, birders, and mushroomers. Wildflowers of Iowa Woodlands will inspire both amateurs and professionals with the desire to learn more about the wonders of today’s woodlands.

About this title

About the Author

Sylvan Runkel (1906–1995) was the coauthor of five books about midwestern wildflowers, including Wildflowers of the Tallgrass Prairie and Wildflowers and Other Plants of Iowa Wetlands. A vigorous promoter of conservation for many years, he was honored in 1996 by the dedication of the Sylvan Runkel State Preserve. Alvin Bull (1925–1982) was the coauthor of three books about midwestern wildflowers, including Wildflowers of Indiana Woodlands and Wildflowers of Illinois Woodlands. He was vice-president of Farm Progress Companies and editorial director for the Indiana Prairie Farmer, Prairie Farmer, Wallaces Farmer, and the Wisconsin Agriculturist.

Review

“In the tradition that only Sy Runkel can claim, Wildflowers of Iowa Woodlands has long provided plant enthusiasts with identification tips, habitat affinities, Native American and pioneer uses, and general ethnobotanical folklore of frequently observed wildflowers in the Midwest. The species represent a broad range of wooded environments, including dry rocky or sandy woodlands, oak savannas, mesic forests, and swamps and floodplain forests. This revised edition, presented in a beautifully designed vertical format, has all-new color photographs and updated scientific names. It is a treasure chest of tidbits, a valuable companion for wandering naturalists and those family hikes in the woods. This is a book you’ll find yourself using again and again.”—Thomas Rosburg, Drake University

Edition details

• Publisher: University Of Iowa Press
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 1587298236
• ISBN 13: 9781587298233
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 294