Often called ‘the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean', the Soqotra Archipelago, off the Horn of Africa, is home to over 300 unique plants such as the bizarre dragon's blood tree, Dracaena cinnabari. For centuries, the traditional culture of these four desert isles, governed by Yemen, has relied on plants to provide life's essentials.

The new Ethnoflora of Soqotra, by RBGE's Tony Miller and ethnographer Miranda Morris, is the first book to provide comprehensive information on the traditional uses of all plants found on the islands. It describes the flora, including 50 species new to western science, and shows the unique relationship between plants and people on the islands. The 600-page hardback publication boasts beautiful colour photography and a fully illustrated key to plant families and species.

Ethnoflora of Soqotra is published on 14 June by the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and retails at £75. However an introductory offer of £60 plus postage and packing is available for direct orders until 31 August. To order, contact the RBGE Publications Department on 0131 248 2991 or email pps@rbge.org.uk

 

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