Here's the definitive book on the cultivation and ornamental use of hardy ferns and their allies. Written by the Curator of Ferns at the New York Botanical Garden, it describes -- in an alphabetical by genus format -- more than 400 types of ferns and many more subspecies, varieties, and cultivars. Each entry explains the fern's habit, frond size, color, hardiness zones, and ease of cultivation, and more. There are also chapters on fern structure and propagation, lists of specific ferns suited to varying growing condition, and an extensive source list, bibliography, glossary, and index of common names. Filled with more than 360 full-color photographs, Ferns for American Gardens is the ideal reference for gardeners eager to acquaint themselves with this wide-ranging and adaptable group of plants.