When Plants Took Over the Planet
Discover the incredible story of how plant life grew to cover the surface of planet Earth, from long before human life existed up to the present day.
This large-format, highly illustrated book will guide readers through the key aspects of the life of plants, from early ferns which were most certainly munched on by dinosaurs, to carnivorous plants that snap and ‘attack’ their prey, or powerful medicinal plants that can heal ailments and boost health.
Mysterious and wonderful plants and trees are explored through the diverse habitats they’re found in, from the Amazon Rainforest to the Sahara Desert, and through the animals found living on them or amongst them.
This book also explores how humans use – and abuse – our precious plants, and how reliant we all are on the survival of our planet’s network of botanical life.
When Plants Took Over the Planet is the latest in the Incredible Evolution series, a beautifully illustrated set of books rich with facts about how life developed on the planet.
Discover incredible stories of ancient species in When the Whales Walked, and explore the ancestry of the human race in When We Became Humans, as well as discover When Dinosaurs Conquered the Skies.
Dr Chris Thorogood is a plant hunter and botanist who has been fascinated by plants for a long as he can remember, having spent much of his childhood growing bizarre and unusual plants including carnivores and parasites. He is now Head of Science & Public Engagement at Oxford University Botanic Garden. Chris is the author of Weird Plants (Kew Publishing, 2018) as well as several botanic field guides.
Amy Grimes is an illustrator based in London. Drawing inspiration from nature and the natural world, Amy's work often features bright and bold illustrated motifs, floral icons and leafy landscapes. As well as working on commissioned illustrations, Amy also sells prints, textiles and stationery under the brand of Hello Grimes.