Because of its large size, topographic diversity, and southcentral position in North America, Texas has a flora of some 5,480 species in 10 natural regions and at least 77 major plant associations. Central in the state's biogeographical pattern is the Edwards Plateau, a strongly dissected tableland, distinctly bordered on the east and south by the abrupt Balcones Escarpment.

This volume brings together eight studies of the Plateau originally presented at a symposium sponsored by the Southwestern Association of Naturalists. The aim is to provide an introduction to the vegetational landscape, including representative photographs, specific research about the history of vegetation patterns, and quantitative information on current structure and succession.