​”Resources of the Southern Fields and Forests” by Dr. Francis Peyre Porcher is a comprehensive 1863 work commissioned by the Surgeon General of the Confederate States during the American Civil War. This 640-page volume serves as a practical guide to the medicinal, economic, and agricultural uses of native plants in the Southern United States. Porcher meticulously documents the properties of trees, plants, and shrubs, detailing their applications in treating various ailments, their edibility, and their utility in daily life. The book includes instructions on preparing tinctures, teas, salves, and even coffee substitutes, making it an invaluable resource for survival and self-sufficiency during the war.​

The work is divided into sections that cover a wide range of plant species found in the Southern states. Each entry provides detailed information on the plant’s identification, habitat, and uses, both medicinal and practical. Porcher’s approach combines scientific observation with practical knowledge, reflecting the resourcefulness required during a time of scarcity. The inclusion of a medical botany section highlights the importance of plants in healthcare, offering alternatives to imported medicines that were difficult to obtain due to the Union blockade.​

Porcher’s book is not merely a catalog of plants; it is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of those who relied on their natural surroundings for survival. The detailed descriptions and practical advice provided in the book have made it a lasting reference for herbalists, historians, and those interested in the intersection of botany and history. Its continued relevance underscores the enduring value of traditional knowledge in understanding and utilizing the natural world.​

“Resources of the Southern Fields and Forests” is a pioneering work that bridges the gap between botany and practical application. It offers a window into the past, revealing how individuals in the Confederate States navigated the challenges of war by turning to the plants around them for sustenance and healing. The book remains a significant contribution to the field of medical botany and a valuable resource for those interested in the historical uses of native plants.