A celebration of the rich diversity and beauty of indigenous trees, The Ways and Wonders of South African Trees uncovers the fascinating world of trees and how they function. Presented in two parts, the first explores the physiology and behaviour of trees, and the second the grandeur of a select number of species – richly supported by photographs.
Part 1 focuses on the complex life of trees and unpacks the important process of photosynthesis and its benefits to all other life. It explores the ways in which trees defend themselves, their role in pollination, and symbiotic relationships with other plants and animals. Record-breakers, such as the oldest, tallest and biggest trees, are also featured.
Part 2 of the book showcases some 160 conspicuous species including the iconic baobab, sausage tree and mopane tree, as well as lesser known but interesting trees such as baboon’s breakfast. These accounts describe the unique traits of different trees and their various parts, and discusses how they are used by animals and birds, and by humans.
About the author
Willem Frost is a writer and amateur dendrologist with a strong commitment to conservation through sustainable use. He has spent decades in the African bush exploring, studying and photographing fauna and flora. He manages a game ranch in South Africa’s bushveld region on the Matlabas River near its confluence with the Limpopo. Over the years, he has published a number of magazine articles on conservation and hunting. His previous book, “The Antelope of Africa”, tells the story of Africa’s antelope in a fast-changing world.