Donald J. Leopold is a distinguished teaching professor and department chair of at the College of Environmental Science and Forest Biology, State University of New York, Syracuse, where he has won numerous teaching awards and researches the ecology of old-growth forests and wetlands, the biology of rare plant species, and the biodiversity and restoration of ecosystems. He earned a PhD in forest ecology from Purdue University and an MSF in forest ecology from the University of Kentucky. Leopold has been recognized with awards from the Garden Writers Association and the NYS Nursery and Landscape Association. His research and speaking events focus on applying ecological principles from natural communities to the development of sustainable green systems and restoring badly degraded landscapes.

It is a must-have for any gardener wishing to learn more about indigenous plants and interested in preserving the balance of native plants on their property. Bangor Daily News 20050305 In addition to the alphabetical categorical listing, appendices list plants grouped according to cultural requirements, giving you a jump start on planning a garden for your particular soil requirements. -- Suzanne Hively Cleveland Plain Dealer 20050317 This review would not be complete without a tribute to the incredible photographs the book contains. The clarity of tiny details is astonishing. -- Jean S. Wexler Vineyard Gazette 20050422 The color photographs (and there are lots of them) are by the author and very well done. -- Donna Clark Home Monthly 20050404 The descriptions include pithy recommendations on cultivation, especially with regard to appropriate habitats. HortIdeas 20050416 Provides an invaluable resource for using natives in the landscape and restoration projects. -- Viveka Neveln American Gardener 20050520 A good reference book and an enjoyable, knowledgeable read. -- Ann Milovsoroff Royal Botanical Gardens Newsletter 20050629 Essential for anyone interested in gardening with native plants as well as those who need horticultural information for habitat restoration. Plant Talk 20050411 [Leopold] recommends 425 species that are easily cultivated in gardens and are useful for restoring native habitats. -- John Lawrence Thompson Gale 20050713 This is a wonderful book that anyone interested in improving backyards, gardens, and other small stopover areas with native vegitation will want to have handy as an essential reference. International Hawkwatcher 20050613 My only problem with this book is that it serves a dual purpose, and I only have one copy. I want to keep it because of its scientific value, but I also want to give it to my youngest son... I guess that I will have to buy another copy. It will be money well spent. -- Douglas A. Wilcox Wetlands Journal 20050714 A great book! I was feeling quite frustrated until I found this new book from Timber Press. A quick read through will reveal many candidates for upcoming plantings. One could also use it as a casual field guide to identify plants and plant communities while hiking. -- V. Ehrlich St. John's Express 20050722 An encyclopedia of experience. -- Joel M. Lerner Washington Post 20050723 This book will interest readers who, regardless of their educational background, wish to learn about using native plants for gardening. -- D. A. Lovejoy Choice 20050710 A beautifully designed book with solid information on gardening. -- Cheryl B. Wilson Daily Hampshire Gazette 20060331 The text is easy to read, both regarding the printing and the writing. ... This is a very good, well written book and well worth the price. -- Jim Dronenburg Washington Gardener 20060501 An important resource for enthusiasts interested in gaining practical insight about gardening with native plants as well as those seeking to restore native plant habitats or enhance biodiversity. Library Journal 20071201 A welcome addition to my growing collection of books that list plants. ... Generously illustrated. ... Forthright, warts-and-all descriptions are common throughout. -- Elizabeth Licata Garden Rant 20080224