Adanson, M. 1763 Familles des Plantes. Paris, Vincent, 1763. 2 volumes. 8vo. pp. (iv), cccxxv, 189, (1); (ii), 24, (4), 640, with folding engraved plate. Paeonia ??

Hunt 77; Stafleu & Cowan 26. First edition. 'The distinction of having first analysed and explained the theoretical foundation of natural classification, and, what was even more important, of defining the practical method to be used in seeking such classification, belongs without question to Michel Adanson. His 'Familles des Plantes' (1763) was a work of historic significance, which gave clarity and coherence to the ideas of the growing number of proponents of the "Natural method". It became the main formative influence in developing natural classification in France, and in ensuring its success' (Morton. History of botanical science, q.v. pp. 310-11). The first volume comprises a history of botanical classification and a detailed chronological table of botanical authors. Adanson was also a proponent of phonetic spelling and employed it to some extent in his work.