The book is an aid to the identification of the propagules of common naturalised and native plants of NZ, and of weeds of other countries that aren't present in NZ but are often intercepted in consignments imported from overseas. It is not strictly about 'seeds' in their bare form, rather the form in which they are most likely to be found or seen; for this reason it includes photographs of 'seeds' with and without appendages such as spiny protrusions, wings or bracts.

The helpful introduction includes an identification aid and glossary. There are 116 pages of colour photographs, with 696 images illustrating 623 different species. A brief description and distribution information are given for each seed.

This title is available to purchase from Manaaki Whenua Press for NZ $49.99 (+ shipping).

• Easy-to-follow format
• Fills gap in area of weed identification, dealing with plant parts we are not accustomed to observing closely
• 696 excellent colour photographs illustrating 623 species
• Companion guide to An Illustrated Guide to Common Weeds of New Zealand, and An Illustrated Guide to Common Grasses, Sedges and Rushes of New Zealand

Ian Popay has been involved with weeds and their control for most of his professionals career. Trained in Britain, he spent five years as a cotton agronomist in East African before coming to New Zealand in 1973 to work with MAF on the ecology of pasture weeds.

Paul Champion is a Principal Scientist at NIWA and has been a part of the aquatic plant management research team since 1988, with over 25 years' experience in management, whilst maintaining a first-rate knowledge of dryland plants.

Nik Grbavac is a scientist specialising in plant pathology and seed technology. As well as providing technical advice, Nik carried out research into seed production problems, and collaborated with the CRI's and Universities on research and seed pathology, seed technology and weed ecology.

Birgit Rhode was born and educated in Germany, graduating as a marine biologist. She worked in estuarine and coastal marine ecology and lectured in general zoology and marine biology before moving to New Zealand in 1993.