Discover how plants have shaped human history, art, and culture. Explore their role in traditions, community initiatives, and the timeless connection between plants and society. We also explore here plants used for social purposes, such as masticatories, smoking materials, narcotics, hallucinogens and psychqactive drugs, contraceptives and abortifacients and plants with ritual or religious significance.
This article is about how to shop smart for plants so you don’t support trafficking or illegal trade. “When you buy a plant, you’re making a choice—let it be for growth, not for greed.” – The Economic Botanist Over the past decade, the houseplant boom has brought joy to many—green corners, plant swaps, propagation experiments. But…
This article is about the booming trend of gifting houseplants and how you can get the best bang for your buck by choosing plants that offer a great return on investment (ROI). “A plant gifted is a friend growing, with roots that spread joy long after the moment passes.” – The Economic Botanist Houseplants aren’t just…
This article is about the rich world of indigenous plants native to North America and how these plants are shaping not just ecosystems but also economies and communities today. “Nature’s gifts, once quietly rooted in tradition, are now blooming with new opportunity and respect — reminding us that what’s native is also highly valuable.” – The…
This article is about the botanical food traditions of Thanksgiving. If you’re someone who loves uncovering the stories behind the foods on your plate, curious about the plants that shaped our holiday traditions, or just want to know where that Thanksgiving feast really comes from, you might wonder: How did corn, pumpkin, cranberries, and even…
This article is about the fascinating journey of cranberries—from their roots as a native plant used by Indigenous peoples of North America to their status today as a celebrated superfood. “From humble marshes to your smoothie glass, cranberries charge history with health.” – The Economic Botanist If you’re someone who loves exploring the stories behind the…
This article is about the fascinating journey of pumpkins and their popular uses. “Pumpkins are like nature’s storytellers—tiny seeds turning into giant gourds that feed our bodies, economies, and imaginations.” – The Economic Botanist Pumpkins aren’t just about jack-o’-lanterns and pie. They’re part of a much bigger story—one that starts thousands of years ago with…
This article is about the fascinating world of hibiscus: its rich history, cultural meaning, practical uses, and why it might just be the perfect flower crop for small growers looking for a fresh opportunity. “Hibiscus teaches us that beauty is not just seen but experienced—through history, culture, and the simple joy of growth.” – The…
This article is about peonies, their fascinating history, global spread, symbolism, beauty, and how they can be a smart flower crop for small growers. “Peonies are not just flowers; they are living stories of culture, beauty, and opportunity waiting to bloom in your garden.” – The Economic Botanist When you think of flowers that combine…
This article is about henna—the amazing plant that’s been coloring our traditions, beauty, and lives for thousands of years. “Henna is nature’s own artist, painting stories of culture, beauty, and celebration on our skin—one leaf, one design at a time.” – The Economic Botanist Henna is so much more than just a pretty color on…
This article is about the powerful and ancient mushroom called Reishi, known for its health benefits and growing popularity worldwide. “True wellness comes from nature’s quiet gifts — and sometimes, the smallest mushrooms hold the biggest secrets.” – The Economic Botanist If you’ve ever heard about Reishi, the so-called “Mushroom of Immortality,” you might be…
