Warning! If ingested, this blog may cause hallucinations, dizziness, and swelling of the throat.
Editor's Note: Not really.
Today we are reviewing the book Wicked Plants: the weed that killed Lincoln's mother & other botanical atrocities by Amy Stewart. This is a sordid little tome about the ne'er-do-wells of the botanical world. Wonderfully written, it is comprehensive enough that one might even consider wearing gloves while perusing it!
The Author's writing style is both personable and engaging, much like having a fun and informative conversation with a wildly knowledgeable friend. She makes the idea of suicide trees and ordeal beans seem almost pleasant! Detailed etchings by Briony Morrow-Cribbs and drawings by Jonathon Rosen add to the fascinating text.
It's not all fun and games, though. Provided along with brief historical accounts of these plant villains are detailed descriptions of their effects, which range from rashes to anaphylactic shock to death.
Usage of these botanical wonders have ranged from torture to enlightenment and, speaking of that, it's a little alarming to learn the proximity of some of these plants to our everyday lives. Out in the lawn, there are grasses that can start fires and others that contain cyanide; your parlor might have plants that can bring on delirium and heart problems (if eaten); and in your kitchen lurk vegetables that can cause paralysis and coma if improperly prepared!
But don't worry, one need not fear this book (nor the plants within)! Just respect them for what they are and appreciate their place in the natural world. Oh, and be careful what you eat!