Wild Plants for a Sustainable Future

Wild Plants for a Sustainable Future is an output from The Useful Plants Project, managed by Kews Seed Conservation Department through the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership in Botswana, Kenya, Mali, Mexico and South Africa. Many inhabitants of these countries depend directly on natural vegetation for everyday needs such as food, medicine, fuel and building materials, and plants are faced with a range of threats that include climate change, over-exploitation, shortage of water, habitat loss and invasion of exotic species. The Useful Plants Project helps communities become better equipped to face such challenges by improving their livelihoods and using the surrounding resources in a more sustainable way. The book includes five chapters, compiled by experts from Botswana, Kenya, Mali, South Africa and Mexico. 110 species profiles are included, selected as being among the most important useful plants for the rural communities. Mostly thes are trees and shrubs, along with cacti, subshrubs, and perennial and annual herbs. Each species profile includes a description, information on taxonomy and nomenclature, fruits and seeds, distribution, habitat, uses, known hazards and safety, conservation status, seed conservation, propagation and trade. Illustrated throughout with images of the plants in the wild, associated habitats, seed morphology, and use in cultivation. Glossary of botanical and technical terms is included at the end of the book.