The Lost Orchid by Sarah Bilston
A Story of Victorian Plunder and Obsession
In 1818 a rare orchid root shipped from Brazil to England ignited an era of "orchid mania" and a decades-long international hunt for Cattleya labiata. The book follows the collectors, nurserymen, plant hunters, South American workers, and botanists whose ambitions and curiosity drove expeditions, and examines the social and environmental damage their pursuit caused. It’s a study of scientific fascination, consumer desire, and the colonial forces behind the scramble for a single extraordinary flower.
The 13045th greatest book of all time
Purchase from
Bookshop.org
- Published
- 2025
- Nationality
- British
- Length
- Moderate
- Pages
- 400
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
- No ratings yet
- Alternate Titles
- None
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following 1 lists:
- 616th on The Greatest Books of 2025 - Honorable Mention (The Greatest Books)