gardens

Plants of the Gods is a richly illustrated, encyclopedic study of psychoactive, i.e. hallucinogenic, plants. It explores the plants’ science – the characteristics and chemistry – as well as the history, culture, and significance of each. For millennia, societies around the world have valued the beneficial qualities of their native flora, and many have revered those plants recognized to have spiritual and psychic effects. This is fascinating ethnobiology, relating botany to religion, folklore, rituals, and art.

In this title, Pierre Bernard described and illustrated the history of the Jardin des Plantes, the botanical garden attached to the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris. The Jardin was more than a showplace for plants – it was (and remains) home to a zoo and several museum galleries. The text is enhanced with line illustrations, maps and color plates. The Smithsonian Libraries holds a two volume set as well as an additional copy of Part 1. All three items are available for adoption.