Reigning over a trove of native flora at the New England Wild Flower Society, Cullina directs his expertise primarily to conservation, research, and education while bringing artistry to the horticultural realm of the society's Garden in the Woods. In previous books, Cullina dealt with wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and vines. His latest effort looks at the panoply of textures available to the gardener who wishes to incorporate ferns or mosses into a shady, woodland setting or perhaps needs help selecting grasses for a sunny meadow. Cullina stresses the importance of each native plant's genetic makeup as he guides readers to an understanding of hardiness factors from coast to coast, invasive species, and the effects of global warming. For the keen gardener or nursery professional, the book should prove an invaluable and authoritatively selective resource, with listings that provide common names, natural habitats, and cultural requirements as well as Cullina's lively plant descriptions and personal musings.
--Alice Joyce, Booklist
"There is an elegance to the writing of Bill Cullina that is rarely found in reference books. His distilled prose, I believe comes from an intimacy with the subject and the palpable affection he possesses for the greater whole. This is yet another great book that Bill has written!"
--Daniel J. Hinkley, author of The Explorer 's Garden
"I have always respected Bill Cullina's work. His new book is an indispensable guide that I'll use while designing with these native beauties, with their fantastic forms and textures. I particularly welcome the way he indicates the degree of difficulty with the mosses."
--Tracy DiSabato-Aust, author of The Well-Tended Perennial Garden
