Orchids of Tropical America: An Introduction and Guide

This new book, the first of its kind, introduces experts and novices to Central and South America's most spectacular orchids. The easy-to-use identification system permits quick recognition of more than 120 prominent genera. Genus descriptions are written in plain language, avoiding technical jargon, and are packed with stories about the ecology, uses and history of each group. Nature reserves from Mexico to Brazil are highlighted, where visitors can enjoy orchids in the wild. Whether you travel to see these unique plants, raise them in your home, or admire them from afar, this guide offers new insight into the diversity and history of orchids

Available now from Powell's Books, Amazon, and local booksellers. Published by Cornell University Press / Comstock.

For more information, visit the Cornell Press book website, or enjoy reading a few sample pages below.

Features

Treats 122 of the most eye catching and widespread orchid groups, from the Bahamas to Brazil

Easy to use identification system allows rapid recognition of almost any orchid flower

More than 480 stunning photos from world-class orchid growers and photographers

Entertaining accounts of ecology, medicinal uses and history bring each group to life

Invaluable as a field guide for orchid tourists visiting tropical America - over 100 reserves and parks featured

Authors

Dr. Joe Meisel is vice president of the Ceiba Foundation for Tropical Conservation, and has worked for over 20 years in Latin America conducting research, teaching, and working with local landowners and communities to protect orchid habitat.

Joe Meisel

Dr. Ron Kaufmann is a professor at the University of San Diego, a long-time orchid grower, founding member of the Orchid Conservation Alliance and chair of the San Diego County Orchid Society's Conservation Committee.

Dr. Franco Pupulin is the orchid curator of the Lankester Botanical Garden in Costa Rica, editor-in-chief of Lankesteriana, and frequent contributor to scientific journals on the subject of orchid taxonomy.

Contact

   email: joe@joemeisel.com
   web: www.joemeisel.com

Cornell University Press

Book website
Amazon reviews

Orchids of Tropical America cover

"Provides an easily accessible and finely illustrated beginner's guide to the fascinating morphology, diversity, ecology and conservation of orchids. You could not find a better trio of enthusiasts and specialists to introduce you to the wonderful and occasionally bizarre world of tropical American orchids."

-from the Foreword by Phil Cribb

Sobralia
Sobralia atropubescens

Contents

  • Introduction
  • Foreword by Dr. Phil Cribb
  • Introduction to the guide
  • Orchid Diversity, Ecology & Conservation
  • Introduction to orchid biology and ecology
  • Why are orchids so diverse?
  • Fooling flies, duping lovers & other ecological tales
  • Collectors & bandits, a history of orchids and the people that pursued them
  • Threats and conservation: what is being done to save orchids?
  • Rapid Identification Guide
  • Illustrated glossary of key orchid characteristics
  • How to identify orchid groups
  • Easy-to-use orchid identification system
  • Field Guide and Genus Descriptions
  • Detailed description each genus, from stem to sepal
  • How to distinguish from similar orchids
  • Distribution & diversity, preferred habitat type and elevation
  • Ecological oddities, human history & other wild tales
  • Superb photographs of the most prominent, widely seen, and historically important species
  • Where to See Orchids
  • Orchid-centered reserves in over 20 Central & South America and Caribbean countries
  • Orchid Resources
  • Links to online sites for orchid identification, care and purchase
  • Extensive bibliography of orchid literature

Sample Genus Accounts

Acineta
Coryanthes
Miltoniopsis
Phragmipedium
Vanilla
Zygopetalum

For more information, please contact the author. To order, visit Powell's Books, Amazon, Cornell University Press, or local booksellers (find a bookstore).