"Trees are natural focal points of any landscape - living structural elements. They inspire an appreciation of nature as well as providing food and shelter for wildlife. For all these reasons, the choice of a tree for your landscape should be carefully considered. Many common native trees are just as beautiful as cultivated exotics. Since they have evolved with local conditions and are well adapted to their climate, soil, and pests and diseases, native trees often require less maintenance than exotics and won't escape to invade a balanced ecosystem." "The authors have spent their lives studying native trees and their environments. Their extensive knowledge is distilled in this comprehensive cross section of trees native to North America, from the Atlantic to the Rockies and from the treeless tundra of northern Canada to the Gulf Coast. They explain how to choose trees appropriate to a particular are, whether by planting new specimens or preserving those already on site. The main section of the book is divided into tree profiles, each describing flowers and fruit, native and adaptive range, culture, and problems. The authors also list the best seasonal features - whether a tree has striking bark in winter, for example, or bright fruit in fall. In all, more than 650 species and varieties, and more than 500 cultivars, are discussed." "Packed with color photos, this fresh, inspired look at native trees is sure to be read by gardeners and woods walkers alike."--BOOK JACKET.