The Sex Life of Plants by Alec Bristow

228 pages, Hardcover

First Edition 1978

ISBN 0030228069

Condition: Very Good (Has very small/minor signs of wear). All of our books are second hand (Unless stated otherwise) and may contain markings,  signatures and/or gift inscriptions 

"The Sex Life of Plants" by Alec Bristow, first published in 1978, is a humorous and engaging exploration of the diverse and often surprising methods of reproduction within the plant kingdom. Bristow delves into the fascinating "sexual activity" of plants, revealing the various strategies they employ to reproduce and ensure their survival, from intricate pollination mechanisms to unique adaptations for seed dispersal.

The book is noted for its accessible style, taking complex botanical concepts and presenting them with wit and a touch of anthropomorphism. It aims to reveal discoveries about plant sexuality that might "cause such pioneer voyeurs as Linnaeus and Darwin to raise an eyebrow," according to its jacket flap. While some reviews mention that the style can sometimes be overly coy or pedantic, the book is generally appreciated for its informative content, historical anecdotes about the study of plant sex, and its celebration of the intricate interdependencies between plant and animal life in the "Evolutionary Grand Scheme of Things." Essentially, it's a popular science book that aims to educate and entertain by shedding light on the often-overlooked and surprisingly varied world of plant reproduction.