Potted History: How Houseplants Took Over Our Homes

Houseplants have been a part of interior design for centuries, influenced by social, plant, and interior design history. Catherine Horwood's book explores how potted plants are subject to fashion, with different eras favoring different plants, such as the aspidistra in the Victorian era, the palm in the Edwardian era, and the fiddle-leaf fig today. The choice of plants has been influenced by house layout, dirt, pollution, and equipment. This book provides a better understanding of the miracles of indoor plant displays inspired by Sir Hugh Platt's 1608 vision.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 08 October 2020
Publisher: Pimpernel Press Ltd

Houseplants have become an increasingly popular addition to homes in recent years, with no shortage of books on how to care for them. However, few have delved into the history of these plants and their presence in our homes. Catherine Horwood's captivating book combines social history, plant history, and interior design to shed light on this intriguing phenomenon.

Through her exploration, Horwood reveals that potted plants are subject to the same fashion trends as pieces of furniture. For example, in the Victorian era, aspidistras were a common fixture in front parlors, while the Edwardians were fond of palm trees. Today, millennials can't imagine a home without the ubiquitous fiddle-leaf fig.

What's interesting is that there is little new when it comes to plants in the home. In the mid-18th century, Wedgwood created a market for special bulb pots, and in the 1950s, some of Terence Conran's earliest designs were for houseplant containers. Throughout history, the choice of potted plants has been influenced by the layout of houses, the levels of dirt and pollution, and the equipment available to care for them.

In the past, indoor plant displays were a marvel, inspired by Sir Hugh Platt's vision of a garden within doors in 1608. These displays showcased the beauty and complexity of indoor plants and were a testament to the skill and creativity of those who created them. However, with the advent of modern technology and the disposable nature of our society, we have become accustomed to treating houseplants as disposables.

This book aims to provide a better understanding of the miracles that were once achieved with indoor plant displays and to highlight the massive explosion in popularity of houseplants in recent years. The new edition has been revised with new material added to bring the history of the houseplant and its popularity right up to date.

In conclusion, Catherine Horwood's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, fashion, and beauty of houseplants. It sheds light on the fascinating relationship between humans and these green companions and provides a deeper appreciation for the miracles that were once achieved with indoor plant displays. Whether you're a plant lover or simply curious about the history of these plants, this book is a valuable resource.

Weight: 194g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910258941