The Ladies’ Flower-Garden of Ornamental Bulbous Plants is a seminal work by Jane Webb Loudon, first published in 1841. This comprehensive guide was designed to make gardening accessible to women, a demographic often excluded from horticultural literature at the time. Loudon, a self-taught botanical artist, not only authored the text but also created the illustrations, which were hand-colored lithographs depicting various bulbous plants. The book is divided into sections that cover a wide range of ornamental bulbous plants, providing detailed descriptions, cultivation advice, and aesthetic considerations. Its practical approach and clear language made it a valuable resource for both amateur and experienced gardeners.​

The illustrations in the book are noteworthy for their artistic quality and scientific accuracy. Each plate showcases the plants in vibrant colors, often arranged in bouquets, highlighting their ornamental value. The hand-colored lithographs were printed by Day & Haghe, renowned for their high-quality work, and the book includes 58 such plates. These visuals not only serve as a guide for identification and appreciation but also as a testament to Loudon’s skill as an artist and her understanding of botanical details.​

Loudon’s work was part of a broader movement to democratize gardening knowledge. At a time when most gardening literature was technical and inaccessible to the general public, The Ladies’ Flower-Garden offered a more approachable alternative. Its success contributed to a shift in how gardening was perceived, encouraging more women to engage in the practice and view it as both a pleasurable and educational pursuit. The book’s enduring appeal lies in its blend of practical advice, artistic presentation, and its role in empowering women in the field of horticulture.​

The Ladies’ Flower-Garden of Ornamental Bulbous Plants stands as a pioneering work that combined botanical science with artistic expression, making gardening more accessible to women in the 19th century. Through its detailed descriptions and beautiful illustrations, it not only educated readers about bulbous plants but also inspired a generation to appreciate the art of gardening. Loudon’s legacy continues to influence gardening literature, and her book remains a cherished resource for those interested in the history of horticulture and botanical art.