Botanical Shakespeare is a captivating and beautifully illustrated compendium of the flowers, fruits, herbs, trees, seeds, and grasses cited in the works of the world’s greatest playwright, William Shakespeare. This unique book is accompanied by their companion quotes from all of his plays and poems.

With a foreword by Dame Helen Mirren, this striking compilation brings together the knowledge and skill of Shakespeare historian Gerit Quealy and respected Japanese artist Sumie Hasegawa Collins. It is the first and only book that examines every plant appearing in the works of Shakespeare.

At the heart of the book are "portraits" of over 170 flowers, fruits, grains, grasses, trees, herbs, seeds, and vegetables mentioned in Shakespeare's plays and poems. Each is beautifully illustrated, providing a "face" to the name, alongside the specific text in which it appears and the character(s) who utter the lines.

This visual compendium includes a dictionary describing each plant, such as Eglantine, a wild rose cherished for its singular scent, and explains the difference between apples and apple-john. It features indices listing the botanical by play/poem, by character, and genus for easy reference, making it ideal for gardeners and literature enthusiasts alike.

This breathtaking collection offers unique depth and insight into Shakespeare and his timeless work through the unusual perspective of the plants themselves.