Orchids have long held a fascination, both for keen botanists and the general public. From the mania of Victorian collectors to the enthusiasm of modern photographers, this family of flowering plants has a strange and exotic appeal. Many orchids are beautiful, and some are rare. This complete reference guide covers the identification, biology and conservation of more than 520 species of orchid found in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. The detailed text, 1,270 colour photographs and line drawings all allow the specialist, as well as the avid botanist, to identify the wild orchids of the region with precision. 'This guide is a must for everyone with a passing interest in orchids. I wouldn't go anywhere without mine now.' Birdwatch (August 2007)