Naked ladies in the garden?
He’s a known introducer of new plant varieties, researcher, writer of the most-used perennials textbook in print, columnist, speaker, and tireless plant advocate, but where Dr. Allan Armitage truly excels is in storytelling.
With the publication of Of Naked Ladies and Forget-Me-Nots, now everyone has access to his sharp wit and bottomless curiosity. Readers will learn the backstory behind the plant names “hookers’ lips” and “hairy balls,” along with other favorites including, “bachelor’s buttons,” “boneset,” and “bouncing bet.”
He spins yarns about the mistaken myth of carrots improving eyesight and how a voodoo lily almost canceled a marriage. Bits and bobs of world history pepper the pages, including plants’ involvement in World Wars I and II, indigo’s role in colonial America, and Queen Anne’s legacy that lives on in a simple roadside wildflower. Helen of Troy, Achilles, and Queen Elizabeth all make appearances among the 95 stories included in the book.
You can order an autographed copy directly from the author at www.allanarmitage.net. For wholesale or review copies, contact Dr. Armitage here.