Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas

As a botany major, I have to say this is the most important book to have in your collection. I use it for classes, I use it for the field, I use it for reference. Some things are outdated and need to be corrected, but for the most part it is essential for anyone dealing with plants. One concern I have is that it may be hard to use for people who are not knowledgeable in plant vocabulary. The keys are sometimes difficult for even advanced botanists to use, and not always because of the plant in question. It is a must-have for anyone dealing with plants, but a good plant dictionary is something I heavily recommend.

I have used this book for almost 30 years, and there is none better for the Southeast. Even if you use other guides, this one is the final authority! I cross reference everything through this book.

I have gone through 4 of these in the past 26 years and I heartily recommend it for anyone with a more than passable amount of knowledge concerning plants.

Provides complete coverage of all vascular plants of North and South Carolina. Features excellent keys, drawings, and range maps.

Fantastic..I heard this book was no longer available. I have used it for years--there is no substitute. Buy it while you can, as it is no longer published and this is the first time I have seen it for sale in over 10 years.