Arthur Tucker
2009, hardback, 604 pages

Now in its second edition, this meticulously researched compendium provides every aspect of growing, identifying, harvesting, preserving and using more than 500 species of herbs.

Thorough plant profiles include information on whether it is an annual or perennial, its height, the hardiness, light requirements, amount of water consumption, the required soil type and the pH.

The history of the plant, the chemistry of its essential oils and its culinary uses are also included, as is advice on how to propagate.

Published in America.