Gardeners worldwide like to push the limits when it comes to the plants they grow in their gardens. Agaves Yuccas and Related Plants: A Gardener's Guide, written by Mary and Gary Irish, and published by Timber Press in 2000 is a book that will help gardeners throughout the United States and perhaps, around the world, learn to use Agaves, Yuccas, and other related plants in their particular gardening situation.

The reader will find a detailed description of the two families which cover the genera: Agave, Yucca, Hesperaloe, Furcraea, Manfreda, Beshorneria, Polianthes, Nolina, Dasylirion, Beaucarnea, and Calibanus and descriptions of each of the genera in Chapters 1 and 2. Line drawings of representative plants from each genera, and drawings comparing leaves of different genera are provided. These drawings are essential to the reader's understanding of how to distinguish between many of the genera which look virtually the same when the plant is not in flower.

Mary and Gary Irish provide information on the economic uses of many of the genera and a bit about their use as ornamental plants. The basics of planting, watering, propagation and cultural problems of each genera are provided as well in Chapter 3. A key feature of this chapter is a table giving the temperature hardiness ranges for various species within the 11 covered genera. By studying Table 3-1, the gardener can easily identify those plants most likely to survive the temperature extremes of their own garden situation. Tracking down the desired species may be the chief problem facing the gardener after studying this list of possibilities.

Detailed profiles of the species within each genera are found in Chapter 4. This chapter makes up two-thirds of the text in the book. For each species listed, you'll find the scientific name(s), common names, size, detailed description of the leaves and bloom, geographical distribution, how to propagate, specific cultural requirements, a list of similar species, and notes on how the plant is used. Colored plates are scattered throughout this section so that the gardener can become familiar with the general appearance of many of the species discussed. Scientific keys to the Agave and Yucca genera end the chapter.

A listing of plants suitable for humid gardens appears just before the glossary. The location of this information puzzles me. It seems to me that it should have been included in chapter 3. I can't determine if it was simply a last minute addition or what. In any event, it will be beneficial for gardeners in hot and humid climates.

If you like having bold and unusual garden plants, reading Agaves Yuccas and Related Plants: A Gardener's Guide is a definite requirement. Consider adding this book to your gardening bookshelf for future reference.