8 Books That Bring Southern Africa’s Trees to Life

This entry was posted on 16 August 2024.

Discover the captivating world of South Africa's trees with this selection
of 
essential reads. Whether you're an experienced botanist or just
beginning to explore the region's natural beauty, these books offer
richinsights into Southern Africa’s diverse flora. From comprehensive
field guides and pocket-sized companions to in-depth studies of iconic
species like the baobab, each title presents a unique perspective on
the trees that define our landscapes. Explore the physiology, survival
strategies, and ecological roles of these remarkable trees, beautifully
illustrated and thoroughly researched to enhance your understanding
and appreciation of Southern Africa’s arboreal wonders.

 


 

 

The Ways and Wonders of South African Trees

Willem Frost

The Ways and Wonders of South African Trees delves into the diverse world of indigenous trees. The first part explores their physiology, behaviour, and survival strategies, while the second showcases 160 species, including the iconic baobab and lesser-known trees like baboon’s breakfast. Richly illustrated with photographs, the book reveals how trees grow, compete, and interact with other life forms, making it a comprehensive guide to South Africa's arboreal wonders.

 


 

 

Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa

Braam van Wyk & Piet van Wyk

This expanded edition of the region’s top-selling field guide to trees offers extensive updates, including new species entries, distribution maps, and a new 87-page section of full-tree photographs. It describes and illustrates over 1,000 tree species in Southern Africa, focusing on the most common and likely to be encountered. Species are grouped by leaf and stem features, with full-colour photos and notes on practical uses. Ook beskikbaar in Afrikaans

 


 

 

Pocket Guide to Trees of Southern Africa

Piet van Wyk

An authoritative introduction to 132 tree species, both indigenous and exotic. Revised and updated by Braam van Wyk, this guide highlights key identification features, along with medicinal and commercial uses. Originating from Van Wyk’s A Photographic Guide to Trees of Southern Africa, this compact, easy-to-use guide is an ideal travel companion for anyone eager to learn more about the region's trees.

 


 

 

SASOL First Field Guide to Trees of Southern Africa

Elsa Pooley

These natural history guides have been developed to encourage young people and anyone with a budding interest in natural history to learn about the wonders of southern Africa’s fascinating fauna and flora. They are an invaluable resource for the beginner, providing information at a glance: each of the species presented is described in easy-to-read text, with a photograph and distribution map. A short introduction gives context to the topic.

 


 

 

100 Bushveld Trees

Megan Emmett Parker

This highly visual guide introduces readers to 100 memorable trees in South Africa's bushveld. It covers tree anatomy and a streamlined ID method for quick identifications, even for novices. Each tree is featured on double-page spreads with full images and diagnostic photos, highlighting key features, uses, and local value. With detailed photographs and clear text, this guide simplifies the complex world of trees.

 


 

 

How to Identify Trees in Southern Africa

Braam van Wyk

This updated second edition is a straightforward guide to tree identification in Southern Africa. It’s divided into two parts: Part 1 explains tree structure and identification features, while Part 2 provides a key to 43 tree groups based on stem and leaf characteristics. Supported by numerous colour photos and illustrations, this accessible book equips readers to confidently identify trees using observable features.

 


 

 

Nature Now Trees of Kruger

Braam van Wyk

This book illustrates and describes 80 common tree species found in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Each spread features the tree in full display, with supplementary images of leaves, flowers, fruit, and bark. The text is succinct and free of botanical jargon, with informative boxes on plant uses. Maps of 35 vegetation zones help readers identify which tree species are likely in specific areas.

 


 

 

African Baobab

Rupert Watson

The baobab tree, Africa's oldest natural monument, thrives in harsh conditions and grows larger and lives longer than most trees. In The African Baobab, Rupert Watson explores this iconic tree’s journey from its Madagascan origins to its future in a changing Africa. Blending natural science, history, and personal observations, Watson delves into its eccentric growth, human relationships, and cultural significance, making this book essential for nature enthusiasts and travellers alike.

 


 

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