Fascinating and beautiful gift book. / Weird plants are divided into 7 chapters: Vampires, Killers, Fraudsters, Jailers, Accomplices, Survivors and Hitchhikers / Unique collection of life-like oil paintings of the plants / Written and illustrated by renowned botanist / Coverage of plants form around the world / Written for a general audience but scientifically authoritativeFor the first time, this extraordinary compilation showcases weird, mysterious and bizarre plants from around the world. Plants trick, kill, steal and kidnap, and this unique book explores a fascinating world in which plants have turned the tables on animals. Author Chris Thorogood showcases these plant behaviours, the interrelationships among plants, the interdependencies between plants and animals, and the intrigue of plant evolution. All types of weird and sinister are featured in this book, from carnivorous plants that drug, drown and consume unsuspecting insect prey; giant pitcher plants that have evolved toilets for tree shrews; flowers that mimic rotting flesh to attract pollinating flies, and orchids that duplicitously look, feel and even smell like a female insect to bamboozle sex-crazed male bees.