Some plants must have a watery environment. They may float on the surface of a pond, like the water lily, or thrive in a salt marsh, like the rose mallow. Together they form a group of surprising variety and make an intriguing subject for this handsomely illustrated botanical study.

Among the pond and marsh plants are some that are helpful to man, others that are harmful, and still others that are prized for their beauty. The author gives striking examples of each. Plants such as rice, watercress and cranberries provide important foods. The mangrove tree does the extraordinary work of creating new land. On the other hand, increasing quantities of minute algae are threatening to suffocate all other life in certain bodies of water. In contrast, the delicate blue gentian lives in remote areas and, when found, is a treasured sight.

In all, Miss Earle describes more than thirty plants, some common and some rare. Her lively curiosity about the things she sees in the natural world around her informs text and art throughout.

From the dust jacket