House Plant History

While houseplants may seem commonplace now, they were not always around. They were once just, well, plants! So how did some plants make the jump from sunning in the garden to enjoying the AC?

Early houseplants can be traced back to ancient China, where greenery in the home was viewed as a symbol of wealth. 

Meanwhile, in the Babylonian Empire, Emperor Nebuchadnezzar was busy commanding the building of a multi-story indoor garden for his wife. Today, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are known as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. 

In Victorian England, the evolution of heating techniques and architecture expanded the possibilities for indoor houseplants. The eventual development of greenhouses and terrariums allowed for the growth of more tropical plants, like palms. 

However, it was not until the 1970s that indoor plants saw a huge boom (welcome ferns and spider plants) and the fad has continued into the 2010s and 2020 with a little help from window ledge-loving succulents. 

House plants are an easy way to brighten up an empty corner, add natural textures to your space, and give off the impression that you are a gardening expert (wink wink). Now that you know a little house plant history, consider adding some greenery to your own space and picture yourself following in the footsteps of the gardening greats. 

Here are a few of our favorite house plants:

Pilea aka Chinese Money Plant 

Photo Credit @nininoes

String of Nickels 

Photo credit: @littlelandsmelbourne

String of Pearls

Photo Credit @two.plant.mamas