Keith Townsend has compiled two reference books for SGAP Townsville Inc. and over the years they have both proved invaluable to those of us keen to identify the wonderful diversity of local plants

This started in 1994 with the publication of "Across the Top", Gardening with Australian Plants" which describes some 1400 species, and includes several articles on topics ranging from successful gardening with native plants to encouraging birds and butterflies in your garden

The plant descriptions are entered by scientific name but there is a common name index and glossary, which altogether runs to 400 pages

This book was completely revised, updated and re-published in 2009

"Plants of the Dry Tropics" is a full colour publication which covers in its 190 pages many of the more commonly occurring plants of our immediate region

Divided into sections covering trees, shrubs, vines and herbs, it is easy to navigate, and provides several detailed photographs for each species, as well as a descriptive text

 In a handy small format this book is a must for everyone who enjoys our natural environment