This field guide shows the flowers of the entire Mediterranean region, including all the major islands. It features full-colour photographs of over 550 species of plant, ranging from common flowers of the coast to botanical specialities such as the orchids and bulbs that flower in such profusion during early spring. Plants from all habitats of the Mediterranean are included, from olive groves and vineyards to the evergreen maquis that covers many of the region's hillsides. Designed to appeal to beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike, every species entry shows the characteristic features of the plant, with close-up details of parts important in identification and a full colour illustration showing the plant's typical habit. The systematic approach of the book follows the internationally accepted botanical standard, the Flora Europaea, and a detailed photographic key at the front helps to speed identification of individual species.