Garden History & Lore

An Ethnobotanical Perspective on Marigolds

An Ethnobotanical Perspective on Marigolds

The marigold is much more than a beautiful garden flower. Its utility as a colorful annual, edible flower, and companion plant for vegetable gardens is greatly enhanced by its profound role in religious and cultural practices around the world.

Cuetlaxochitl: A Cultural History of the Poinsettia

Cuetlaxochitl: A Cultural History of the Poinsettia

With cheerful red bracts and delicate yellow flowers framed against velvety green leaves, colorful poinsettias are an indisputable symbol of Christmas. In fact, poinsettias are the most commercially important potted plant in the world because of their endearing association with the December holiday season. But how did this warm-weather shrub native to western Mexico become so closely associated with Christmas?

African American Garden History and the Future

African American Garden History and the Future

African Americans are at the center of our nation’s gardening and farming history and are an integral part of shaping the future. We went searching for examples of how they have experienced and contributed to past and present gardening and farming practices in the United States. We were taken aback by the amount and depth of stories out there! So we wish to share this small sampling of stories with links for you to explore more deeply.

A Foodie's Guide to Plant Names

A Foodie's Guide to Plant Names

Plant names can be influenced by fashion, locations, people, and not surprisingly, our love for food. What better way to celebrate the summer season than by adding some plants with delightfully ‘delicious’ food-themed names to your garden. Not only will these plants add a bit of whimsy, they are also a great conversation starter! As a note, the plants mentioned in this blog are meant for admiring and not intended for eating. Enjoy!