Flowers are so much more than decorative: Throughout history, they have also been used as herbs, medicine, coloring agents, and expressive symbolism. Yarrow, or "soldier's friend," was used to dress battle wounds during the Civil War and to flavor beer before the discovery of hops. The peony is traditionally displayed as a symbol of wealth, and is also recognized for its healing properties—Virgil wrote about peonies reviving the Greek goddess Artemis after she was killed by Zeus's horse. Until the twentieth century, heather was valued for its nectar, and its easy maintenance makes it popular in gardens today. Learn surprising facts about one hundred flowers around the world in this vividly illustrated tome, and revel in the fresh benefits of your spring blooms! (RR)