Orchids of Kenya

Situated astride the Equator, Kenya is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa. From the idyllic white beaches of coral sand, facing the Indian Ocean, to the snowfields at the top of Mt Kenya more than 5000 metres above sea level, it is a land of great diversity, wild landscapes and abundant wildlife. The flora too is very varied. Among the trees and shrubs of the forests and bush and in the extensive grasslands, nearly three hundred different kinds of orchids can be found. This is the first book devoted to the orchids of Kenya. It deals with all the epiphytic species, the lianes in the genus Vanilla, and finally the terrestrial kinds. They are all described in a logical and comparable way. Approximately two-thirds of the species are illustrated in colour, many of them in close-up. An important chapter describing the work on orchid conservation at the National Museums of Kenya, in Nairobi, is also included. The text describes each species, where it grows in Kenya, and when it flowers. Other countries in Africa where each can be found are also mentioned. For each of the 50 genera there are historical notes and distribution data as well as hints on cultivation. Keys to the genera and species are provided. In conjunction with the photographs and descriptions, these keys will enable everyone with an interest in these fascinating plants to identify those they find in Kenya today. The book will also be useful to orchid enthusiasts living in or visiting other parts of Africa because many of the species are widespread in the continent. Growers of African orchids in many other parts of the world will find the wealth of information it contains invaluable.