Field Guide to Grasses of California: 110 (California Natural History Guides) - Hardcover

Smith, James P.; Simpson, Kathy

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0520275675 ISBN 13: 9780520275676

Publisher: University of California Press, 2014

Synopsis

Grasses and grasslands are of increasing interest to conservationists, biologists, and gardeners. There are more than 300 species of native California grasses and they are found in almost every climate--from cool, wet forests to hot, dry deserts. Native grasses are also important in land restoration, as they improve soil quality, increase water infiltration, and recycle nutrients. Their deep roots can tap soil water, allowing them to stay green year-round and act as fire buffers around residences. Native grasses also provide vital habitat to many species of insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Despite all of this, grasslands remain one of the most underprotected of California's vegetation types, and native grasslands have undergone the greatest percentage loss of any habitat type in the state. Grasses are also among the most difficult plants to identify. Organized alphabetically, Field Guide to Grasses of California covers the more common native and naturalized grasses, and features over 180 color illustrations to help identify them.

About this title

Review:

"Smith has written what should become the primary field guide to grasses in California." -- J. Cummings CHOICE

About the Author:

James P. Smith, Jr. is Professor Emeritus of Botany at Humboldt State University.

About this edition

• Publisher: University of California Press
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 0520275675
• ISBN 13: 9780520275676
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 432