Hillerman & Holst 1986

[bbrown]

Hillerman & Holst (An Introduction to the Cultivated Angraecoid Orchids of Madagascar) is still my favorite angraecoid book. Yes, it only treat Madagascar species in cultivation or known to the authors, but the specific information on culture and characteristics is invaluable. For instance, most books merely note that angraecoids are fragrant at night, whereas H&H note that A. compactum smells like "spicy lime" and Aer. modesta has a "menthol" fragrance. Furthermore, the photos show the whole plant, and not just the flowers, which is useful for recognizing plants when not in bloom. In my opinion, having this book for its cultural information, its fine photographs, and the incredible knowledge of Hillerman is a must. Of course, having Stewart et al. (Angraecoid Orchids) and the other books is also highly recommended, along with the two Hillerman cultural manuals, and his articles on angraecoids in the AOS Bulletin.

Brian