"The fairest cape" was Sir Francis Drake's description of the Cape of Good Hope as he sailed around South Africa in 1580; the Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest of the world's six such regions, is one of the botanically richest areas of the earth. This guide by two eminent botanists details 652 of the most common or conspicuous wildflowers to be found there. About one-third of the species and more than four-fifths of the genera are presently in cultivation, so it is useful not only as a guide to the region but also as a source of information on many plants that are grown in gardens -- or should be.

Arranged by groups of related families, the guide offers keys down to species level. Descriptions of families and genera in addition to the species fill this scientifically accurate, highly readable text.