Plants of the National Parks Discover the Stories of Over 100 Remarkable Plants from All 63 of America's Great National Parks

by Zona, Scott

• ISBN13: 9798317900816
• ISBN10: 8317900819
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2027-01-05
• Publisher: Cool Springs Press
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Summary

Explore the botanical wonders that define America’s most breathtaking and beloved landscapes in this unique, insightful collection of vividly photo-illustrated plant stories.

Plants of the National Parks offers a fresh way to experience these treasured destinations—through the plants that shape their identity. Written by botanist Scott Zona, this visually rich coffee table book profiles more than 100 of the most distinctive and ecologically important plant species found across the US National Park system.

From ancient bristlecone pines and towering redwoods to resilient desert cacti, aquatic wonders, and alpine blooms, each plant is brought to life with stunning photography and fascinating text. Gain insight into how these plants have adapted to some of the planet’s most extreme environments, the vital roles they play within their ecosystems, and their cultural significance to people and place. Organized by region and park—from Alaska to Florida, Maine to Hawai?i—the book invites exploration and wonder, whether you’re planning your next trip, gifting the book to an adventuresome friend, or traveling from your armchair.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Profiles of 100+ iconic plant species found across all 63 US National Parks
• Striking, full-color photography that captures each plant in its natural habitat
• Clear explanations of unique plant adaptations, survival strategies, and ecological roles
• Insight into cultural and historical significance, including Indigenous uses
• Regional organization that makes it easy to explore the plants park by park

Perfect for travelers, hikers, gardeners, and nature lovers alike, this book offers a deeper, more meaningful connection to America’s public lands—one remarkable plant at a time.

Author Biography

Dr. Scott Zona is a botanist, researcher, and educator with a focus on tropical plants. For nine years, he served as the curator of the Wertheim Conservatory and Greenhouses at Florida International University in Miami, where he directed the restoration of the conservatory and maintained its research plant collections. Dr. Zona has collaborated with scientists worldwide on plant ecology research and has taught graduate- and undergraduate-level courses on tropical plant taxonomy. He guides garden tours and workshops for students, garden clubs, and the general public. In addition, he was a palm biologist with the Center for Tropical Plant Conservation at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Florida. He also educates houseplant enthusiasts through his online course, The Botany of Houseplants.