The flower's place in the garden has been a subject of debate for centuries. At times, it was condemned as a pagan symbol, at others, celebrated as a reflection of society and the world of knowledge.
In Flowers in the World's Most Beautiful Gardens
As Allain relates, flower gardens existed during the Gallo-Roman period, but after the Roman Empire fell, leisure gardens disappeared for several centuries. By the 14th century, rose gardens were appearing in France and by the 15th century, species from America were being imported into Europe. Photos of two Medeival gardens are enchanting: Tusson in Charente, France; and Tretower Court in Wales, UK.
The book is divided into nine major chapters with themes such as Pleasure Gardens; New Theories of Color in the 19th Century; Scientific and Technical Progress in the 19th and 20th Centuries; and The Flower Covered Meadow. In addition there are separate profiles on many flowers, including exotic plants, the rose, the tulip, the water lily, the peony, and grasses.
Most of the spectacular photos are of European gardens (many of which you've never heard of), although there are a few from other locations like New Zealand, Russia, Thailand, and the U.S.
It's a book for perusing, for ideas, for the coffee table, for the pleasure of learning more about fabluous flower combinations and gardens. A wonderfu present for any serious gardener or garden enthusiast.
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