From the author of the critically acclaimed Wily Violets and Underground Orchids comes a new delightful work for all those enamored of the world's flora. This time out, Professor Peter Bernhardt examines some of the fascinating relationships between humans and plants throughout the ages.From the teachings of missionaries in sixteenth-century Peru to the centuries-old superstitions of Persian midwives, Peter Bernhardt takes us on an absorbing tour of the strange points in history where the lives of people and plants have converged. For instance, we learn that the passion vine's name comes not from any properties its fruit has as an aphrodisiac but rather from the Jesuits' conviction that the vine's flower depicted Christ's passion on the cross. Bernhardt also chronicles the various bizarre medicinal powers ascribed to saffron the spice that's worth its weight in gold.Aside from the history and lore surrounding certain plants, Bernhardt also reveals the science behind their existence; recording each plant's remarkable life cycle. We are introduced to the Asian slipper orchid the subject of many of Robert Mapplethorpe's photographs and a plant whose survival strategies would have shocked even the controversial photographer. And we learn that, yes, every supermarket lettuce dies a virgin!Natural Affairs is both an impressive record of the botanical sciences and a thoroughly charming often quirky look at the histories and cultures of various societies. Peter Bernhardt's observations are always a delight whether he's on the hunt for wild orchids in Australian graveyards or in the lab recording plant structure and function. Natural Affairs offers a rare and informative glimpse into a magical world where wonders are ceaseless but, too often, unappreciated. Read Less