Elderflora : A Modern History of Ancient Trees

Jared Farmer's 'Elderflora: A Modern History of Ancient Trees' has been honoured with the Jacques Barzun Prize in Cultural History. This captivating work seamlessly intertwines natural and human narratives, presenting ancient trees not merely as extraordinary organisms, but as silent witnesses to human triumphs, follies, and virtues.

Farmer's meticulous research and eloquent prose chronicle the evolving relationship between humans and venerable trees. The narrative traces the 18th-century shift in perspective when naturalists embarked on a quest to identify and date Earth's most ancient living entities. This newfound fascination with arboreal longevity sparked a wave of pilgrimage to these living relics and ignited conservation efforts for sacred groves. However, this reverence was paradoxically accompanied by exploitation, as ancient forests fell victim to imperial expansion and industrialisation.

The book's journey spans the globe, from Lebanon to New Zealand to California, weaving a rich tapestry of voices including Indigenous peoples, religious figures, and contemporary scientists grappling with the plight of elderflora in our changing world. Farmer posits that a sustainable future remains possible, but hinges on our ability to nurture young saplings that may one day become the ancients of tomorrow.

This magisterial study of arboreal longevity extends its reach far beyond botany, encompassing a wide array of social and scientific issues. 'Elderflora' stands as a testament to the enduring significance of ancient trees in our modern world, and a clarion call for their preservation.

Product Information:

Book ISBN:	9781035009060
Book Author:	Jared Farmer
Book Format:	Paperback / softback
Book Imprint:	Picador
Book Publisher:	Pan Macmillan
Book Dimensions:	131 x 197 x 29 cm
Book Publication Date:	2024-02-15
Book Pagination:	448 pages
Book Weight:	310g