Orchids are one of the largest plant families, with an estimated 28,000 species worldwide, they occur on all major landmasses except Antarctica. Full of a variety of colour and form, this new Kew Pocketbook offers a snapshot into the diverse world of orchids, a plant group that has become part of our daily lives, fascinated Darwin, and continues to enthral scientists and horticulturists today. Beautifully illustrated with 40 stunning paintings from the Kew archives.An introductory chapter by Kew expert Michael F. Fay provides an overview of the plant group, and extended captions accompany each painting.