"Every relevant detail to be found about the nearly 3,000 species and their varieties is included in the listings: origin and spread; cultivation and adaptation in various lands; the circumstances under which the plant was first eaten; myths; parts of the plant eaten; special preparations if necessary; scientific name; synonyms in the literature; common names; all known varieties; and the commercial status of the cultivated plants. Each statement is footnoted for reference or further study." -- back cover.