2003 first edition large format hardcover with dust jacket and 377 pages new and unread.With contributions by Duncan Butchart (Figs, Birds and other Wildlife), Simon van Noort (Fig Wasps and the Pollination of Figs), and Geoff Nichols (Growing Figs)

This book by the husband and wife botanical team which also produced the definitive work on ferns of the region in their Southern African Ferns and Fern-Allies (1990), was eleven years in the making. This new authoritative work provides detailed information on the 48 native figs (Ficus) of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zambia and Malawi. Also included are the commonly cultivated figs which were introduced into the region for economic and ornamental horticulture, and the other members of the fig family (Moraceae) found in the region, incluing the cultivated mulberry (Morus), the breadfruit (Artocarpus), and the timber tree which produces iroko lumber (Milicia). A total of 88 species are covered.

John and Sandie have followed their dictum of not writting about a plant without first seeing it growing in its habitat. To achieve this goal they have travelled, at their own expense, more than 70 000 km through all the countries of southern Africa, tracking down all but one of the species described in this work.This extensive field experience has provided the insight to help sort out some of the intractable nomenclatural problems with which tree- lovers are faced in this part of Africa. The engaging style in which they present their observations and information, with an abundance of illustration, is equally understandable to the layman and valuable to the professional botanist.

Three contributors have written chapters in their own specialist fields. Duncan Butchart provides detailed insight into the role that figs play in the life of birds, animals and insects; Dr Simon van Noort illuminates the fascinating world of wasps and their involved relationship with figs, while Geoff Nichols covers the cultivation of figs.

Introductory chapters provide a general background to the family Moraceae and figs in the African sub-coninent.

Each indigenous species has a distribution map,a detailed black and white illustration by Sandie Burrows, and photographs depicting habit, bark, leaves and fruit. A key to the indigenous species of figs in southern Africa is provided.

Figure 1, Title (Signed), Sponsor, Contents, Dedication, The Contributors, Foreword by Abraham E van Wck, Preface, Acknowledgements, Introduction, 379 pages text with supporting colour photographs, sketches, data and information.

Contributions by Duncan Butchart (Figs, Birds and other Wildlife). Simon van Noort (Fih Wasps and the Pollintation of Figs). Geoff Nichols(Growing Figs).