When most people think of botany, the scientific study of plants, they imagine serene greenhouses, quiet herbariums, or researchers hunched over microscopes in tranquil labs. While these settings are undoubtedly part of the discipline, they only scratch the surface. Here are five of my favorite reads that combine the beauty of plants with the thrill of exploration. From expeditions into uncharted territories to unraveling the secrets of plant life, these books capture the spirit of adventure in botany and will have you looking at this science in a whole new light.

Throughout history and across various cultures, wildflowers have been valued not only for their beauty and medicinal properties but also for their spiritual and symbolic meanings. In many traditions, certain wildflowers have been believed to possess protective qualities, especially in warding off evil spirits, bad luck, or negative energy. These flowers, often rooted in ancient folklore, were thought to protect individuals and households from malevolent forces, creating a shield of positive energy and purity,

Wildfires are a natural part of many ecosystems, especially in regions like California, the Mediterranean, and parts of Australia. While these fires can devastate landscapes especially with the exacerbation of climate change, they also serve an important ecological function: clearing old growth, returning nutrients to the soil, and making space for new life. One of the most remarkable responses to fire is seen in wildflowers—delicate, colorful blooms that have evolved to thrive in the aftermath of fire.

15 ways to make a botanical sanctuary in your home with Eufloria Botanical Art

Eufloria greeting cards now available at Santa Fe Botanical Garden gift shop.

Flowers have been assigned meanings across history and cultures.

BTS's V hits the bullseye with his floral fashion ensemble that harkens back to traditional botanical art. If it was only sustainable fashion, it would be perfect.

Eufloria Greeting Cards now at Petal Pushers Santa Fe Pop Up on Saturdays.

Sustainable harvesting of wildflowers is important to ensure the preservation of natural ecosystems and biodiversity. I follow the ethical guidelines of wildcraft foraging which refers to the practice of gathering wild plants, herbs, and other natural materials from their native environments for food, medicine, or other uses - in my case for art.  Here are some tips for sustainable harvesting of wildflowers to ensure sustainability, preservation of the habitats of wildflowers, and safety.