Field Book of Western Wild Flowers

"Field Book of Western Wild Flowers" by Margaret Armstrong and J. J. Thornber is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work aims to document and provide a popular field guide to the diverse wild flowers found in the western United States, particularly in areas west of the Rocky Mountains. It features detailed descriptions and illustrations of various flower species that thrive in different environments, offering insight into their beauty and ecological significance. The opening of the book introduces readers to the purpose and scope of the work, stating that it represents a comprehensive attempt to catalog the common wild flowers of the western U.S. In it, the authors discuss the variety of climates and ecosystems within this vast region, from deserts to mountain gardens, showcasing the ability of plants to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. The preface also mentions the collaboration between Armstrong, a botanical illustrator, and Professor Thornber, highlighting the book’s accessibility for both general readers and scientists. Thus, it sets a foundation for exploring the richly illustrated content that follows, aiming to engage both casual flower enthusiasts and serious botanists alike. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Margaret Neilson Armstrong (1867–1944) was a 19th and early 20th-century American book cover designer, illustrator, and author. She is best known for her book covers influenced by Art Nouveau. She also wrote and illustrated the first comprehensive guide to wildflowers of the American west, Field Book of Western Wild Flowers (1915). In later life, she wrote two popular biographies and three mystery novels.