History of Houseplants

Houseplants and humans

Houseplants, also known as indoor plants, have been a part of human history for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to modern times, people have been cultivating plants indoors for both practical and aesthetic purposes. In this article, we will explore the history of houseplants and how they have evolved over time.

Ancient Cultivation

The ancient Egyptians were some of the first known cultivators of houseplants. They would bring plants indoors to protect them from the hot desert climate and to purify the air in their homes. The ancient Greeks and Romans also had a love for indoor plants and would decorate their homes with them. In particular, the wealthy would display exotic plants in their homes as a symbol of their wealth and status.

Medieval Times

Some of the only sites where plants were grown indoors during the Middle Ages were the monasteries. In their herb gardens, monks would grow medicinal plants that they would utilize for food, medicine, and healing. To supplement their nutrition, they also planted fruits and vegetables in greenhouses.

Victorian Era

The Victorian era saw a resurgence in the popularity of houseplants. With the advent of the greenhouse, more exotic plants were able to be grown indoors. The Victorians were also obsessed with the idea of creating a “hothouse” atmosphere in their homes and would often overcrowd their rooms with plants. They believed that plants had the power to purify the air and improve the overall health of the household.

Modern Times

Modern homes and offices frequently feature indoor plants as décor. The development of technology has made it simpler than ever to maintain and care for indoor plants. Today, many people view indoor plants as a means to improve their mental and physical health by bringing a little bit of nature into their homes.

Houseplants are here to stay

Houseplants have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations. From the Egyptians to the Victorians, people have been cultivating plants indoors for both practical and aesthetic purposes. Today, indoor plants continue to be a popular form of decor and are valued for their ability to improve the air quality and overall well-being of a space.

References:

• The Sill – https://www.thesill.com/pages/history-of-houseplants
• BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine – https://www.bbc.com/gardenersworld/article/a-brief-history-of-houseplants
• House Beautiful – https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/garden/plants/a34907902/history-of-houseplants/