Since the 16C botanists have travelled to the wildest and most remote parts of the world in search of new species of trees, plants, bulbs and seeds. This book records some of the discoveries, adventures and misadventures during their amazing journeys, often of many months and sometimes years. These plant hunters endured some of the most punishing conditions in their quest for the perfect specimen, suffering from extreme temperatures, fevers and injuries, occasionally finding themselves in a war zone while exploring unknown territories. Despite everything they never failed to send home their discoveries.