Our Vanishing Wildflowers - Henry S. Salt

Our Vanishing Wildflowers and Other Essays

Henry S. Salt, Sir Maurice Abbot-Anderson (Preface)

  • Edition: First Edition
  • Publisher: Watts & Co., London
  • Published: 1928
  • Length: 86
  • Format: Paperback
  • Second Edition
  • Sir Maurice Abbot-Anderson (Preface)
  • 1928 Watts & Co., London, Paperback, 86 pages

Summary

Our Vanishing Wildflowers and Other Essays by Henry S. Salt is a passionate call to protect Britain’s endangered flora. Salt expands on articles previously published in The Times, focusing on the growing threat of extinction for many wildflower species. He highlights how human activities—such as urban development, over-collection by botanical enthusiasts, and the rise of exchange clubs—are contributing to the destruction of the country’s native plants. Salt argues that flora is a national treasure, and its loss is a cultural tragedy.

The book advocates for both legislative action and public awareness, suggesting the creation of a “Wildflowers Preservation Society” or a joint committee from existing environmental organisations. Salt’s vision is supported by Sir Maurice Abbot-Anderson, who proposes forming a popular League for the Protection of Wildflowers, particularly aimed at educating schoolchildren about the importance of conservation. Salt’s essays are not only informative but also thoughtful and witty, showing his deep love for both rare and common plants.

Dedicated to Sir Maurice Abbot-Anderson, this work is a heartfelt plea for protecting the beauty and diversity of Britain’s wild flora.

The first edition was published in May 1928 and the second edition was published in September of the same year.

Content

  • Preface
  • Our Vanishing Wildflowers
  • The Cure?
  • The Need of Sanctuaries
  • New Introductions
  • The Bump of Destructiveness
  • A Botanist's Garden
  • Fortune's Freaks
  • Treasures of a Sandpit
  • Pastures New
  • The Well-Beloved
  • The Long-Sought
  • Some Lowly Kinds
  • Conradeship of the Wild
  • Botanical Literature
  • The Sensibility of Plants
  • The Art of Collecting
  • An Afterword

Reviews

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