Discover the hidden lives of Britain's most abundant plants, the stories of their names and folklore, and the science behind their success

We often imagine that rarity is special - we seek out the most uncommon wild plants to tick off our lists, while overlooking the extraordinary appeal of the species we encounter day-to-day. Yet it's these plants -the most successful, able to adapt and thrive - which are truly fascinating. Botanist, writer and expert gardener Ken Thompson has set out to chart Britain's fifty most abundant wild plants and reveal the secrets of their success. He explores the roots of their common names, from the dog rose to Yorkshire fog, and explains the key traits that have led them to flourish across Britain. And, along the way, he shares his tricks for making your garden a haven for green life. Stunningly illustrated by Sarah Abbott, Common or Garden is a celebration of the everyday wonder of the plants that you can see, as Thompson enthuses, 'before you even have lunch'

"Being common is actually 'a rare and rather exceptional quality' ... We should value these familiar plants, Thompson writes, because they are the ones we have learnt to use as medicines, in cookery and incorporate into folklore. This charming books zips along at a breakneck pace, much enhanced by Sarah Abbott's jaunty illustrations" - Daily Mail

"A beautifully illustrated spotter's guide to Britain's most successful wild plants" - Countryside