Essential reading for both the amateur gardener and professional botanist, this is a definitive and comprehensive guide to all the native and naturalized grasses, sedges, rushes and ferns to be found in the British Isles, and all those that are frequently found in north-western Europe. Over 420 species are described and over 350 are illustrated in full colour plates of exceptional beauty and accuracy.

Following the general nomenclature and classification, the author describes each species in detail, stressing the features most important for accurate identification. There is also an invaluable illustrated glossary of technical terms and plant structures.