Newest edition of Armitage’s perennial plant book released

Horticulture expert Dr. Allan Armitage’s newest edition of his perennial plant book, “Herbaceous Perennial Plants: A Treatise on Their Identification, Culture, and Garden Attributes” (fourth edition), hit shelves in both hardback and paperback editions on July 21.

Published by Stipes Publishing LLC, the newest edition of “Herbaceous Perennial Plants” includes dozens of new species and hundreds of new cultivars from breeders throughout the world. While Armitage’s comments on morphological characteristics provide sound scientific guidance for gardeners and horticultural fans, his testaments to plants’ “garden worthiness” add a unique, solid perspective for readers deciding which plants will perform best in their spaces.

First published 31 years ago, “Herbaceous Perennial Plants” quickly became a resource in the field of horticulture. Recognized as one of the “best 75 books in the last 75 years” by the American Horticulture Society, Armitage’s book gained ongoing popularity and praise with each new edition for his comprehensive, thoughtful insight into the world of perennials.

Last updated in 2008, the newest edition provides easy-to-read information for more than 500 genera, species, and cultivars used in the gardening and landscape trade.

Throughout the 1,100 pages, Armitage includes plant pronunciation guides, more than 300 color photos, observations about plants’ performance, cultivar selection and current taxonomy.

In the fourth edition, Armitage amplifies and simplifies the many recent changes in plant nomenclature, as well as shares up to date analysis of the problems with invasive plants. While providing an in-depth reference book, his subtle humor concerning plants and cultivars may bring laughter to the reader. He describes the differences in gardening in the south versus the north, plus he shares his expertise in selection, identification and propagation of perennials for the expert and the beginner.

“In the 12 years since the third edition was published, there have been colossal changes in horticulture,” says Armitage. “New plants, new cultivars, changing taxonomy, natives and invasives—to say nothing of the people who are actually using our plants — I knew it was time to give my old friend an update.”

“Herbaceous Perennial Plants” is available through Stipes Publishing (https://stipes.com/) and from Dr. Armitage (www.allanarmitage.net). The book retails for $89.80 hardbound), $79.80 (paperback) and those copies ordered through the Armitage website can be personalized and autographed if desired. For more information about the book, contact John Hecker, Stipes Publishing, at stipes01@sbcglobal.net.

Learn more and keep in touch at www.allanarmitage.net.