[.ca] Sun-Drenched Gardens: The Mediterranean Style (ISBN 0810932903)

Showcasing lush, cultivated, verdant gardens:
An informative and intrinsically interesting text by Jan Smithen (who teaches the art and science of gardening at the Los Angeles County Arboretum) comprises Sun-Drenched Gardens: The Mediterranean Style. This is a remarkable work which is superbly enhanced with memorably stunning full color images by professional photographer Lucinda Lewis showcasing lush, cultivated, verdant gardens flourishing through the mild winters and dry summers of the Mediterranean climate. Sculpted foliage, antique pots, majestic gazebos and much more fill this captivating, memorably visual tour which is enthusiastically recommended for gardeners, horticulturalists, and the non-specialist general reader.

Defines the Aesthetic:
This an important work for those concerned with garden design. There are many examples of the Mediterranean Style, with emphasis on French, Italian, and Californian interpretations. The volume is light on text and heavy on pictures (and they are of exceptional quality). At times, the captions neglect to inform the reader of the dominant plant's identity. This is a good introductory volume for the hobbyist and would be a valuable tool for designers to use with clients to clarify and illustrate the style. Great advocacy for use of drought tolerant plants.