Primarily intended for the beginner, this manual is also a compendium of the large majority of Alpines listed in catalogues. Some rare and more difficult species are included offering a challenge to any grower - amateur or professional. The genera are listed alphabetically. Within each genus similar species are grouped together for easy comparison, and there is a comprehensive index for a complete alphabetical list of accepted names and synonyms. Cultivar names are included under relevant species or, if their origin in unknown, at the end of each group.