Gifts for Gardeners: Wicked Plants

During the month of December, we’ll be sharing some of our “Gifts for Gardeners” suggestions. You can see the entire list in the November/December issue of Northern Gardener.

The title of Amy Stewart’s book makes it clear that this isn’t a typical gardening book. Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln’s Mother & Other Botanical Atrocities (Algonquin Books, 2009) lets you know which botanical evildoers may be lurking in your backyard. Drawing on history, medicine, science and legend, this compendium of botany entertains, enlightens and alarms even the most intrepid gardeners and nature lovers. $19.

Available at Squire House Gardens, 3390 St. Croix Trail S., Afton; 651-436-8080.