Dr. Allan Armitage publishes new book

Dr. Allan Armitage, known introducer of new plant varieties, researcher, columnist, speaker and tireless plant advocate, has published a new book with a collection of stories about how plants got their common names.

"Of Naked Ladies and Forget-Me-Nots: the stories behind the common names of some of our favorite plants" provides readers with the backstory behind amusing common plant names and some favorites such as bachelor’s buttons, boneset and bouncing bet.

He spins yarns about the mistaken myth of carrots improving eyesight and how a voodoo lily almost canceled a marriage. Bits and bobs of world history pepper the pages, including plants’ involvement in World Wars I and II, indigo’s role in colonial America, and Queen Anne’s legacy that lives on in a simple roadside wildflower. Helen of Troy, Achilles, and Queen Elizabeth all make appearances among the 95 stories included in the book.

The book is one of more than a dozen Armitage has published throughout the years. For more information, visit Dr. Allan Armitage's website.

ALSO READ: Honesty is the best policy: With each new cultivar, the need for plant trials grows greater. We spoke with Dr. Allan Armitage about how trial gardens can improve their visibility and relevancy.