Gardening with Indigenous Trees and Shrubs is an invaluable handbook for all gardeners. The authors dispel the myths that indigenous plants are difficult to grow, or that the range of indigenous garden plants is rather limited. The first part of the book looks at the function you want trees and shrubs to fulfil in your garden and identifies which species will meet those needs. Do you want a small evergreen shade tree or a tree that displays fantastic autumn colours? Perhaps you need a tree with red flowers for a small garden? Or a range of plants that will be frost hardy or drought resistant? Plants are listed according to the role they will play in your garden.

Part 2 of the book is a species by species account of over 400 indigenous trees and shrubs. For each species there is a description of the plant as it grows in the wild, its natural range and habitat, its appearance, and anything else that will appeal to the gardener. This is followed by an account of its performance in cultivation, its shortcomings as well as its virtues. All information in the book is based on first hand experience and original observations, making this a valuable contribution to South African gardening literature.