A heavily illustrated history of herbaria from one of the world's foremost experts. For nearly six centuries, scientists have been documenting the plants and fungi of the world through herbaria. The wealth of specimens available today, carefully preserved through the centuries, is a unique source of data that not only helps scientists understand how the world's vegetation has changed over time, but allows them to also predict how it will change in the future. In Herbarium, Barbara M. Thiers shares the fascinating story of how herbaria began, what they are, and how they function today. Readers will discover the role herbaria play in the exploration of the natural world, the important contributions they have made, and how they are under threat. Thiers argues passionately for their preservation and for the important role they play in protecting plant life for generations to come. Herbarium is heavily illustrated with photographs and unique historical material from the collection at the New York Botanical Garden. It is a must-read for passionate plant fans and conservationists. AUTHOR: Barbara M. Thiers is director of the William and Lynda Steere Herbarium at the New York Botanical Garden, president of the Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections, and vice president of the Natural Science Collections Alliance. 241 colour photographs