Ceri Davies wrote:
While it occurred to me that I could simply ask here about every
plant I see and don't recognise, I realise that everyone's time
would
be better spent if I went out and bought a book or two on the
subject
instead.

Therefore, I'd like to solicit recommendations on books to purchase
on
the subject of identification. I'm mainly interested in weeds
really,
and am a botanical novice (though am not averse to reading fat
books).

Weeds are a purely psychological problem. Richard Fitter et al, _The
Wild Flowers of Britain and Northern Europe_, Collins is my faithful
and battered companion of thirty years: I heartily recommend it. (The
same publisher produces a rather nice little "Gem Guide" if you want
something really small, but I'd go for the bigger one as it's more
nearly complete.)

Once you get into it there will certainly be others you'll want; but
I think this is the one to start with: I hope you'll be as happy
together as I've been with mine. I've nearly worn it out, and have
scribbled all over it (things like "martagon lily on road outside
Trelech"), and it seems to like it!

--
Mike.