Figs of Southern and South-Central Africa

John and Sandra Burrows, 2003
Umdaus Press (Pretoria), hardcover, 380 pages, 235x315mm, 500 colour photographs, 90 full-page pen-and-ink illustrations, ISBN:1-919766-24-3
R650-00 (available from good bookstores or by e-mail: umdaus@succulents.net).

In the tradition of great botanical monographs, this sumptuous book describes 88 members of the Moreacea family occurring naturally (or as popular ornamentals) in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi. Each species is treated to a comprehensive overview which includes information on its formal description, name derivation, distribution (with map), taxonomy, ecology, economic uses and cultivation. Minutely detailed pen-and-ink illustrations of the plant structure (all drawn from life) are complimented by outstanding colour photographs, showing details and the form of the species in particular localities.

These authoritative species accounts are preceded by various chapters including ‘An Introduction to the Fig Family', ‘Fig Wasps and the Pollination of Figs', ‘Figs, Birds and other Wildlife', ‘Growing Figs' and ‘ A Short History of Fig Exploration in Africa'.

Fig trees have an extraordinary relationship with fig wasps (mostly from the family Agaonidae) in a classic case of obligate mutualism. In the majority of cases, each fig species has its own specific wasp pollinator. Neither the fig tree, nor the insect could survive without the other, and they have thus evolved in tandem. This intriguing topic is covered in some detail by specialist contributor Dr Simon van Noort. Fig fruits (properly termed ‘syconia' as they are in fact both flowers and fruits) are highly nutritious and sought after by a variety of frugivorous animals which consequently serve as distribution agents for the tiny seeds. In this way, fig trees provide sustenance to a host of creatures and form the foundation of countless food chains. Fig trees also play a role in mankind's spiritual life and religious rituals. Overall, these often mighty trees (some, however, are dwarves) loom large in the lives all creatures.

The research for this book took place over eleven years, during which time John and Sandra Burrows travelled 10 195 kilometres in their searches for each species in the wild. This fine publication is a monument to the dedication, energy and rare talent of this husband and wife team, and a fitting tribute to the magnificent plants which have become their passion.

- Duncan Butchart -

Posted: Plants by CC Africa, Date: 22 November 2006