Book excerpt: This reference covers all aspects of botany and ranges into related fields such as agriculture and horticulture. Containing encyclopedic information and including substantial articles on major terms and concepts as well as shorter articles and cross-reference definitions, the book is intended primarily for A level students and first-year university students studying botany and biology but, as it covers both pure and applied aspects, it will also provide a useful reference service for students and others with interests in agriculture, horticulture, physical geography and related fields