A new series by luxury plant purveyor, Léon & George, About the Architect seeks to explore the stories behind architectural masterpieces and the creative minds that bring them to life. Through dedicated profiles and stunning visuals, we aim to celebrate the intersection of design, innovation, and nature, showcasing how these elements come together to create extraordinary living spaces.

The Masterpiece: Villa Benkemoun

Conceived by the visionary architect Emile Sala, Villa Benkemoun is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the 70s. Simone and Pierre Benkemoun's dream of a "transparent and open" living space was brought to life by Sala, who drew inspiration from his master, Le Corbusier. This modernist house in Arles, located in the Camargues region of the south of France, reflects the principles of architecture of the era, with its seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, sculptural finishes, and mid-century design elements.

The Benkemoun family lived in this idyllic setting from 1974, fostering a vibrant and joyful home for 45 years. In 2017, their daughter Brigitte and her husband Thierry Demaizière chose to maintain the villa's legacy, ensuring its doors remain always open to family and friends. Villa Benkemoun is not just a home; it is a living piece of art that continues to inspire.

The Era and Inspiration

The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation and eclectic aesthetics in architectural design. It was a time when architects like Emile Sala were pushing the boundaries of traditional design, embracing the freedom to create spaces that were not only functional but also emotionally resonant. The 70s design ethos was characterized by its embrace of natural materials, open floor plans, and a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Organic shapes and forms were preferred over rigid structures, allowing for a more harmonious and fluid interaction between the built environment and its inhabitants.

Le Corbusier, a master architect of the early 20th century, significantly influenced Emile Sala's work. Known for his pioneering ideas in modern architecture, Le Corbusier advocated for buildings that were functional and minimalist, yet deeply humane. His principles of open spaces, the integration of nature, and the use of pilotis (supports) to elevate structures off the ground are subtly echoed in Villa Benkemoun's design. The villa's contemporary design, with its sculptural finishes and thoughtful integration of modernist principles, stands as a tribute to Le Corbusier's enduring influence.

Source : INVENTAIRE DE LA PRODUCTION ARCHITECTURALE ET URBAINE  – Départemental de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine 13 – Antenne d’Arles – Équipe chargée d’étude : Eléonore Marantz-Jaen / Frédérique Bertrand / Arlette Hérat – 2010.

The Architect: Emile Sala

Marc-Emile Sala, born on September 29, 1913, in Merry-la-Vallée, France, was deeply influenced by his father, Albert Sala, a renowned painter. He studied architecture at the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-arts de Paris and also attended the Institut d'urbanisme de Paris. After graduating in 1938, Sala worked for several firms before opening his agency in 1942. His career spanned various projects, including residential, public facilities, and urban planning, showcasing his commitment to integrating functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Villa Benkemoun epitomizes Sala's philosophy of harmonizing human habitation with nature. The modernist house features a range of sculptural finishes and antiques that enrich its mid-century aesthetic. The villa's architectural design and authentic retro furnishings reflect the principles taught at the school of architecture where Sala trained enhances the villa’s innately unique charm.

As admirers of architecture and how plants can complete a space, our recent photoshoot at the Villa Benkemoun was a real treat. From the geometric shapes of the building’s exterior to the iconic interior furnishings, the modernist home stands as a testament to the discipline of architecture and continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.

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At Léon & George, we are drawn to spaces that embody natural beauty and timeless design, which is why our recent photoshoot at Villa Benkemoun in Arles, France, felt like a natural fit. This stunning architectural gem, built in the early 70s and designed by architect Emile Sala, is an iconic landmark representative of the era and mid-century modern house design. It was the perfect setting for capturing how an environment can blend style and functionality with the right amount of nature.

Villa Benkemoun: A Showcase of Modernist Architecture

Our Founder, Nicolas, who grew up near Arles, has always been inspired by the region's unique landscape and cultural heritage. At Villa Benkemoun, the modernist architectural design integrates indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. With expansive glass windows, unique curves, and playful colors, the home invites you to revel in the sculptural orchestration of light and shadow. The playfulness throughout each room accentuates the villa’s distinctive character, showcasing a blend of modernist and contemporary design elements.

Living room plants: Large Money Tree, Medium ZZ, XL Rubber Tree, Office plants: Jade Pothos, XXL Kentia Palm, Pool Plants: Bird of Paradise

Architectural Design with a Touch of Retro Charm

The Villa Benkemoun is filled with all original furnishings from the home’s owners, adding to the delight and charm of being in the space. Walking through the front door is like traveling back in time, from the bright orange lounge chairs to chrome cabinets, and a kitchen filled with vintage appliances, you’re instantly immersed into what life may have been like during this iconic era.

Capturing the Essence of Villa Benkemoun

Working with local artist and photographer Diane, their intimate knowledge of the region and artistic eye were instrumental in capturing the villa's unique spaces. Diane’s expertise in architectural photography brought out the best in every shot, highlighting the villa's key features and thoughtful contemporary design elements, along with the retro coffee tables, lounge-chair arrangements, vintage lamps and of course plants.

A Personal Touch: Meeting Brigitte Benkemoun

During the shoot, we had the pleasure of meeting Brigitte Benkemoun, the daughter of the villa’s patron, who grew up and lived for many years in this modernist home. Her stories and insights about the villa’s history added a personal touch to the day, enriching our understanding of the architectural marvel and making the experience truly memorable.

As admirers of architecture and how plants can complete a space, visiting the Villa Benkemoun was a real treat. From the geometric shapes of the building’s exterior to the iconic interior furnishings, the modernist home stands as a testament to the discipline of architecture and continues to inspire and captivate all who visit.

Living room plants: Large Snake Plant, Bedroom plants: XL Fishtail Palm, Large Zanzibar Gem.

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Designed to Thrive

At Léon & George, we strive to bring elegance and harmony into modern homes and offices with our premium plant delivery service. Specializing in statement trees and office plants, we offer a diverse selection of lush greenery that transforms any space into a serene and stylish environment.

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Elevate your space with the ultimate easy-care houseplant! Snake Plants are the best air purifiers in the world of horticulture.

Owning house plants has a long list of benefits, but are some more powerful than others? The Snake Plant (scientific name sansevieria and also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue) is not just popular for its unique, variegated, and striking appearance. It is actually widely considered one of the most beneficial indoor plants for a number of different reasons! What’s more? It has even a couple extra benefits when placed in a space of rest and relaxation.

The Many Benefits of the Snake Plant

Looking to get better sleep? There’s arguably no better option for the bedroom than the Snake Plant, a plant that beyond boasting many benefits, requires little to no care to enjoy its beauty. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of having a Snake Plant in the bedroom!

1. It’s A Fantastic Oxygen-Producing Plant

All plants produce oxygen, but according to Nasa’s Clean Air Study, some are even better at it than others. The Snake Plant is considered to be one of the best plants with the highest oxygen producing qualities and air purifiers, along with others like the Rubber Plant and the Cascading Pothos. Studies show that higher oxygen levels promote deeper sleep, but that’s not all…

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2. It Even Produces Oxygen At Night

Contrary to popular belief, plants don’t produce oxygen 24/7. In fact, most plants only produce oxygen with daylight through the process of photosynthesis. At night, on the other hand, these plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, a process called respiration. However, the Snake Plant is one of the lucky few that continues to produce oxygen at night, making it the ideal plant to place in your bedroom for better sleep and to help you breathe.

3. They Filter Out Harmful Pollutants

Studies have shown that indoor air quality and indoor air pollution is often even worse than what we find in densely populated cities. The same Nasa Clean Air Study mentioned above also found that Snake Plants work double time removing harmful toxins and gases like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and odor from our indoor environments. These harmful air pollutants can be found in regular household objects like carpeting, furniture polish, and cleaning supplies.

4. Effective Against Allergies

Plants with such powerful room air purifying and oxygen-producing qualities will of course help to combat allergies, as they remove harmful pollutants and volatile airborne chemicals that can aggravate allergies, and in some cases even make you sick. Combine this with oxygen-producing powers and you have easier breathing both day and night.

5. Low-Light Thriving and Easy To Care For

Like to keep your bedroom on the dimmer side? The Snake Plant can is easy-to-grow and can survive and thrive in almost any lighting scenario, from bright direct rays of sunlight to areas with almost no natural light. It also requires very little water, humdity, can be watered sparingly with little to no upkeep, the Snake Plant will help maintain a calming and beautiful bedroom space with excellent purification— the way it should be!

Ready to add a Snake Plant to your life? Find the perfect size and pair it with your favorite pot color and style and get ready for a cleaner, most beautiful bedroom space! Found the perfect Snake Plant? Learn how to care for and how to grow it with our articles The 10 Commandments Of Snake Plant Care and How To Care For And Grow Your Snake Plant.

At Léon and George, we're on a mission to bring the beauty of nature and indoor gardening into your daily life. Our hand-selected, California-grown plants such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, Ficus Audrey, and Bird of Paradise are carefully chosen for their quality, health, and beauty. We believe in simplicity, fairness, and sustainability, sourcing our plants from trusted local growers who share our values. When you bring a Léon and George plant into your home, you're not just getting greenery – you're getting a piece of nature treated with our all-natural products and staged for optimal growth. We're here to make plant ownership accessible and enjoyable for everyone, fostering a connection between people and the natural world.

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Courtesy vistredwoods.com

Bio·​phil·​ia /ˌbī-ō-ˈfi-lē-ə  /-ˈfēl-yə : a desire or tendency to commune with nature

Explore the wonders of nature with us in our Léon & George Travels series as we delve into captivating biophilic experiences across the globe.

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Approximately 50 miles north of Eureka, California and just below the Oregon state line lies a verdant haven nestled within the heart of one of the state’s many redwood state parks. Meet Fern Canyon, a true hidden gem amongst California’s many natural wonders, and well-worth the trek to see.

A Jurassic Wonderland

Located within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Fern Canyon is a mesmerizing tapestry of nature's artistry. Carved by Home Creek over thousands and thousands of years, what makes Fern Canyon so special are its 50+ft walls draped with lush ferns that cascade like emerald waterfalls. From Maidenhair Ferns, Sword ferns, Lady Ferns and Deer ferns, don’t be fooled by their often delicate appearance: some of these ancient species date back over 325 million years, making them older than dinosaurs. And speaking of dinosaurs, scenes from Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World were filmed here!

How to Visit Fern Canyon

Getting to Fern Canyon is an adventure in itself. You’ll need to make a reservation to obtain a parking permit, and be prepared for a 1-mile hike through the canyon, where you'll navigate the creek and witness the magic of Fern Canyon unfold before your eyes. For the more seasoned hiker, you can also access Fern Canyon via the 11-mile round trip hike from the Prairie Creek Visitor Center without any permit. Read the most recent updated information on how to visit Fern Canyon here.

When to Visit Fern Canyon

During the summer, the park installs wooden planks to navigate the trailhead and stream. If visiting during autumn, winter or spring, consider bringing waterproof footwear and always call to check conditions before visiting.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, mornings often offer greater solitude in Fern Canyon. Keep in mind that rainy weather can render the canyon interior impassable. Therefore, it's advisable to choose a clear, sunny day to visit. If hiking Fern Canyon in the rain is your only option, exercise caution, proceed slowly, and avoid venturing during heavy rains as Home Creek may flash-flood.

Photo credit: visitredwoods.com and Getty Images

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The Braided Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is deeply beloved, with a dazzling reputation for bringing good luck and prosperity to its owner. From its intriguingly braided trunk (how do they get that way?) to the way they often seem to pop up at thriving businesses, the Braided Money Tree simply feels like a vibrant mystery to be solved. Naturally, our curiosity ran wild, and we took a deep dive into the history of this mythical plant. Get ready—the story of the Braided Money Tree is truly one worth telling!

It All Begins With A Legend

Cue our instant interest: we love an enthralling backstory. According to legend, the history of the Braided Money Tree was rooted many centuries ago, when a Taiwanese farmer in dire financial straits found a stray Pachira growing in his field. Taken by its beauty, he decided to try his hand at growing more plants from that Pachira’s seeds, in the hope that others would be similarly enthralled with their charm. And they were! The Pachira became wildly popular across Taiwan, and the farmer grew prosperous and wealthy from his crops. That’s why he started calling them Money Trees.

Sound Too Good To Be True? Here’s The Grounded Version 

Okay, so the legend may be just that: a legend, but we know some things for sure: the Pachira has long been a popular ornamental tree—especially in Japan, where Bonsai practitioners have treasured them for years as vivid, semi-aquatic mini trees. We also know that the telltale braid gained traction in the 1980s. This is the era during which the popularity of the Braided Money Tree expanded internationally, with exports of the Pachira stretching far and wide. 

Tell Me More About That Braid…

We love the Pachira’s braid and the elegant trunk, and so do Feng Shui practitioners, who suggest placing it in wealth or health areas of your home. With its iconic twist of five trunks, it conjures the five elements of Feng Shui in harmony: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. There’s also an intriguing bit of ambiguity as to who originated the practice of braiding the trunks. (That’s right, they’re braided by hand!) Some accounts tell of early bonsai practitioners in Japan starting the braid. Others tell of a Taiwanese gardeners named Liu. He is credited with discovering that when starting the braid early in the Pachira’s growth, it continues that growth pattern over time on its own. The result is a full, condensed canopy of leaves with an iconic and aesthetically pleasing tree shape.

The Significance of the Braided Money Tree

The Braided Money Tree has been symbolic of prosperity since its first cultivation. They’re believed to bring wealth in finances, fulfillment and overall security. They’re also emblematic of good luck, so when you gift one to yourself or a loved one, just remember: you’re giving the gift of a plant that, according to legend, lifted its original farmer from the depths of despair to a position of fortune, comfort and positivity. It was lucky indeed when he found that Pachira in his field—and lucky for us that he shared the extraordinary Pachira with the world! 

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Money Trees

A leafy symbol of good luck and prosperity. Shop Money Trees of all sizes at leonandgeorge.com

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The Asian New Year or Lunar New Year is almost here and with it we will usher in a new sign of the Chinese Zodiac: the Year of the Dragon. Learn about the symbolic significance of this powerful symbol and year, and don’t forget to check out our limited edition Year of the Dragon Braided Money Tree, the perfect gift to wish someone prosperity for the year ahead!

The Asian New Year Unveiled

Unlike the conventional January 1st celebration, the Asian New Year is a moveable feast, dictated by the lunar calendar. As a result, this auspicious event falls somewhere between January 21 and February 20, marking the beginning of the lunar new year. In 2024, the first day of the new year is February 10.

This time-honored tradition is steeped in rich symbolism, with families coming together to sweep away the old and embrace the new. The air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of incense, the sound of firecrackers, and the vibrant hues of traditional red and gold decorations that symbolize luck and prosperity. Family members gather around a large table to enjoy a New Year's Eve dinner, traditionally known as Nian Ye Fan (年夜饭). During this celebration, families pay homage to their ancestors by burning incense. During this time of year, it is typical for elder members give younger family members good luck pocket money, referred to as Ya Sui Qian (压岁钱), enclosed in a red envelope.

The Year of the Dragon

In the Chinese zodiac, each year is associated with one of twelve animals, each carrying its unique traits and symbolism. And guess who's headlining 2024? It's none other than the awe-inspiring, mythical creature—the dragon. The dragon holds a special place in Chinese culture, embodying power, strength, and good fortune. Far from the fire-breathing menace of Western lore, the Eastern dragon is a benevolent force, a symbol of wisdom, protection, and imperial authority. Its celestial status makes it a harbinger of prosperity, and it is believed to bring good luck.

Dragon Energy in 2024

As we dive headfirst into the Year of the Dragon, let's harness its energy to fuel our personal growth and aspirations. Whether you're chasing career goals, seeking love, or simply striving for a better version of yourself, the dragon's influence encourages us to dream big and soar to new heights.

Career Ascendance: In the professional realm, the dragon's energy inspires us to be bold, ambitious, and unafraid to take calculated risks. It's the perfect time to embark on that entrepreneurial journey or pursue that promotion you've been eyeing.

Love and Relationships: The dragon is a symbol of passion and charisma. If you're on the quest for love, embrace your inner dragon and let your magnetic personality shine. For those already in relationships, let the dragon infuse your bond with renewed vitality and excitement.

Personal Development: On a personal level, channel the dragon's wisdom to explore self-discovery and personal growth. Adopt a mindset of resilience and adaptability, as the dragon encourages us to embrace change and transform challenges into opportunities.

Don’t forget to enhance your good juju with plants that bring good luck to your home or office!

Wishing you all a fiery and fabulous Year of the Dragon! May it be filled with joy, prosperity, and the unwavering courage to chase your dreams. Let the dragon within you roar loud and proud! 🐉🔥

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Year of the Dragon Braided Money Tree

A limited edition plant and pot set, to bring good luck and prosperity for the year to come. Order online at leonandgeorge.com

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If you’re a lover of nature, Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion for you. It’s a time to celebrate the ones that we love: to express our affection and gratitude for the family, friends and partners that bring joy to our lives. And the best part is, on Valentine’s Day, we say it with plants. From sprays of red roses to carnations and even bay leaves, each traditional Valentine’s Day plant has its own age-old symbolism. Read on, because the stories behind this holiday’s most popular gifts are truly intriguing!

Red Roses

Red roses were the favorite flower of Venus, the goddess of love in Roman mythology, so it stands to reason that the rose has become a Valentine’s Day mainstay. Legend has it that roses first bloomed when Venus appeared from the sea, and they were cultivated as far back as the era of Ancient Greece. The gifting of English garden roses among friends and lovers gained popularity in the Middle Ages, sparking the Valentine’s Day tradition that is now standard. But roses have enjoyed their popularity for thousands of years, and the Rosa species itself is 35 million years old.

Anthuriums

As if their heart-shaped spades weren’t romantic enough, anthuriums have a bountiful association with love across many cultures. In the feng shui tradition, they are associated with good fortune in relationships. In Greek myth, they’re known as the “Arrows of Cupid”, the god of love and attraction.

Carnations

Also known as “The Flowers of the Gods”, carnations are native to the Mediterranean, with their scientific name, Dianthus, meaning “Divine Flower” in Greek. Carnations are another popular flower to signify love, with the color of their blossoms denoting different connotations. For instance, red carnations signify passionate love, whereas pink carnations signify gratitude and admiration.

Bay Leaves

In 1700s England, a tradition arose in which women would pin five bay leaves to their pillow before bed on the evening of Valentine’s Day, in the hope that the leaves, when combined with a prayer, would reveal the face of their true love. They would then recite the prayer of “‘Good Valentine, be kind to me, in dreams let me my true love see” before drifting to sleep. We hope this charming ritual was as effective as it is heartwarming!

Calandivas

The Calandiva or Kalanchoe plant is traditionally associated with love, persistence and prosperity, due to its profusion of long-lasting blossoms. As a potted flower variety, they’re well suited for a long life of abundant flowers, with blooms that can last six weeks or more. They typically bloom in winter and spring, and will blossom year after year. All they need to flourish for years is a sunny spot and a little love.

Every time a holiday rounds the bend, we’re reminded of how deeply tied we are to the natural world. Our connection to nature and our appreciation of its beauty, shines through with special strength during times of celebration. And on Valentine’s Day, we receive an extra-special reminder that we’re all part of nature, bound by love on our beautiful green planet.

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• How sending a gift works

  Join hundreds of customers in choosing Léon & George for all their gifting needs. We make it effortless to send an impressive and upscale Valentine’s Day gift to someone special. Enjoy some of the perks of sending a beautiful plant or flowering plant gift with Léon & George:

  • Fast, nationwide shipping with express and overnight options

  • Innovative, custom packaging that ensures your gift arrives in pristine condition

  • Personalized gift message options

  • Select your preferred ship date, if desired

• The Best Valentine's Day Plant Gifts

  Not sure what to send them? Browse our full collections of excellent gifts for all occasions and Valentine’s Day gifts:

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Photo by @alexiaduchene for Léon & George

A new year is here and with it comes a chance to refresh, renovate and reconsider the place we spend so much of our time: our home! Read on for some of expert predictions for the trends to come in 2024, including plenty of ideas to make your space greener and healthier than ever.

Neutrals have reigned for what feels like an eternity, but 2024 will be the year that we people embrace color with more vibrant and bolder hues. From Pantone's warm and inviting color of the year, Peach Fuzz, to deep gem-tone interiors, this trend comes with a desire to inject life and personlity into our interiors. Rediscover the joy of bold statements and let your living space reflect your unique style. Who said your walls had to be boring?

Shop Color!

Coral Ceramics

Midnight Ceramics

Pinterest has spoken with their annual Pinterest Predicts report, and "hot metals" are on the rise. Prepare to see chrome, steel, and aluminum take center stage in your decor. From stainless steel tablewares to chrome lighting fixtures, let your home gleam with the bold elegance of metallic elements. It's time to shine bright like your favorite metal!

In 2024, our leafy companions are taking a weight off and making way for the airy. Picture this – a seemingly weightless statement plant like the Black Olive Tree or Fishtail Palm swaying gracefully in your living room. While a lush interior never goes out of style, embracing a lighter look will be all the rage in 2024. These plants not only breathe life into your space but also add an ethereal touch, making your home a sanctuary of serenity.

Top Airy Plants

Fishtail Palm

Black Olive Tree

Step into the world of timeless elegance with ceramic and terracotta finishes. The 1st Dibs Interior Designer Survey is singing the praises of these classic materials, and we're all ears. Incorporate these finishes into your space for a touch of sophistication that transcends trends and will never go out of style. Looking for the perfect ceramic or terracotta accents? Shop our collection of upscale premium planters to bring this natural and effortless look to your home.

2024 is all about stepping up the romance game. Influenced by popular TikTok aesthetics and the #cottagecore trend, think feminine color palettes, whimsy details, fresh flowers and soft moments that evoke a sense of simple joy. Don’t forget to complement your romantic space with living greenery and create your own personal love letter to a simple and beautiful life.

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Elevate your bathroom oasis with the natural beauty of living greenery. Shop online at Léon & George

Decorating your bathroom with plants is a fantastic way to bring a touch of nature into a space you use every day! However, it's essential to choose plants that can thrive in the unique conditions of a bathroom environment. In this article, we'll explore what you need to know before decorating your bathroom with plants, including the best plant options, lighting considerations, and tips for maintaining a healthy and stylish green space reminiscent of a tropical oasis!

1. Lighting Considerations

2. Bathroom Humidity

3. Finding Mold on your Plants in the Bathroom

4. Maintaining Your Bathroom Greenery

5. Creating a Stylish Bathroom Oasis

Lighting Considerations

Before adding plants to your bathroom, assess the lighting conditions. Many bathrooms have limited natural light, so it's crucial to choose plants that can thrive in low or indirect light. Consider the following tips:

• Place Plants Near Windows: If your bathroom has a window, position your plants near it to maximize exposure to natural light.

• Choose Low-Light Tolerant Plants: Opt for plants that can thrive in low-light conditions, such as ZZ plants, Snake Plants and Ferns. These varieties can adapt to the subdued lighting often found in bathrooms.

• Use Grow Lights: If natural light is insufficient, consider supplementing it with artificial grow lights. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and can provide the necessary light for your bathroom plants to flourish.

Bathroom Humidity

The bathroom tends to be a relatively humid space, so consider investing in plants that enjoy this type of atmosphere. Luckily many popular houseplants hail from tropical environments that are naturally humid, so rest assured there is plenty to choose from! Here are some popular humidity-loving plants that would do well in the bathroom:

• Cascading Pothos

• Bird’s Nest Fern

• Staghorn Fern

• Monstera Deliciosa

• Bird of Paradise

• Cast Iron Plant

• Parlor Palm

Looking for ever more ideas? Check out our full list of best plants for the bathroom.

Transform your bathroom vanity with Cascading Pothos – the perfect touch of green.

Finding Mold on your Plants in the Bathroom

Because of the humid conditions in a bathroom, it is not uncommon to find light growth on the soil of your plants. This is almost never harmful, and can sometimes even be beneficial for the health of your plant! If you don’t like the way it looks, feel free to scrape it off and even consider sprinkling the soil with cinnamon to avoid it coming back.

Maintaining Your Bathroom Greenery

To ensure your bathroom plants remain healthy and vibrant, follow these maintenance tips:

• Watering: Be mindful of your plant's water requirements. While ferns prefer consistently moist soil, succulents like Zanzibar Gems prefer to dry out between watering. Adjust your watering routine based on the specific needs of each plant, and note that many plants will require a lot less frequent watering when living in the humid conditions of the bathroom.

• Pruning and Grooming: Regularly remove yellow or dead leaves to encourage new growth and keep your bathroom oasis looking fresh. Prune your plants as needed to maintain their shape and size.

• Rotate Plants: To ensure even growth, periodically rotate your plants. This helps prevent uneven growth and promotes healthier, more balanced plants.

Creating a Stylish Bathroom Oasis

Now that you know what to consider before decorating your bathroom with plants, it's time to transform your space into a stylish and green oasis. By choosing the right plants, optimizing lighting, and implementing proper maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty of nature in one of the most intimate spaces in your home. Explore different plant varieties, experiment with arrangements, and turn your bathroom into a refreshing haven with the power of greenery!

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In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

I’m interested in incorporating feng shui into the way I style my home, because I want to make it as tranquil as possible- a sanctuary to return to after work. What plants are best for feng shui and how should they be positioned according to the feng shui tradition?

Thanks for your help,

J.V.

Dear J., 

Feng shui is such an interesting practice. It can be explored very deeply, but it’s also simple to understand the basic tenets and allow them to guide your choices for greenery and the way you place plants in your home.

Maximizing the tranquility and energy of your home is a worthy pursuit. And it’s different than the way you’d organize a workspace: home is about relaxing, feeling entirely yourself and recharging your spirit. 

I’m going to start by sharing an assortment of plants that are among the most feng shui friendly. Be sure to double check that the light your space receives will be appropriate for the plants you choose (you can reference our light requirements guide for support).

Best Houseplants for Feng Shui: 

Braided Money Tree

It may not be surprising that a plant called a Money Tree is considered to be a bringer of prosperity, but did you know that they are also powerful air purifiers? Braided Money Trees are traditionally believed to capture luck in their braids- but their canopies also capture airborne pollutants, and transform them into clean, beneficial oxygen! In traditional feng shui, they are recommended for placement in wealth or health areas. But we think that Braided Money Trees belong anywhere and everywhere- their flexible preference for medium to bright indirect light means that they can thrive in many different spots.

Unsurprisingly, the Braided Money Tree is one of the most common plants in the teachings of feng shui.

The Snake Plant

Another incredible air purifying plant, the Snake Plant is a feng shui mainstay. In feng shui, it is beloved for its role as protector, and is recommended for placement by doors (especially front doors) and in pairs. It is not traditionally recommended for bedrooms. Snake Plants are exceptionally low-maintenance, require little water to thrive, and are appreciative of all light levels, but prefer not to be scorched by direct sun. 

Philodendron Brasil

Health is wealth! And the feng-shui favorite Philodendron Brasil addresses both, with a reputation for encouraging both monetary prosperity and physical wellness. A bedroom superstar, Philodendron Brasils are ideal for tranquil spaces. Per feng shui tradition, rooms in the southeast or east areas of your home are ideal. 

Cascading Pothos 

Pothos varieties are gorgeous and invigorating. In feng shui tradition, stale energy can gather on cabinet tops and in high corners, restricting the home’s overall positive energy. Pothos plants are the perfect way to alleviate this. Place a pothos on a high cabinet or shelf, or suspend it in a basket or macrame hanger, and allow its foliage to grow in cascading tendrils. This easy-care plant will thrive with medium, indirect light, and you can enjoy its misting and watering routine weekly. 

The entryway deserves special attention in feng shui, and is a great place to add greenery. Pictured here: Monstera Deliciosa, Braided Money Tree, and Zanzibar Gem

More Thoughts on Placement:

When it comes to our homes, we are each the captain of our own ship, and it can be fun and gratifying to intuit for ourselves where we’d like to place our plants. But the feng shui tradition has quite a bit to say on this, the general gist of it being: 

• As soon as you enter your home, you are in the mouth of chi. That means that your front entryway is where chi (energy) enters your home. This area should receive special attention and focus, and is a good place to showcase your most beautiful plants.

• General entryways, your living room and dining room are also key areas in your home to focus on. They tend to receive the most varied light and set the scene for your home’s energy overall. 

• Dying plants are not good for feng shui. Ensure that you choose plants you can care for, and that are a fit for the lighting your space receives.

Feng shui is an ancient (dating back to 4000 BC or earlier) and complex traditional practice. There is so much one can learn about it, and myriad applications for its wisdom. If you’d like more information, consider learning your home’s feng shui bagua, or energy map. You can also read more about the significance of the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal and water) of feng shui. But to begin, consider the basics: placing healthy plants with auspicious connotations in the most frequently loved and used areas of your home. 

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Finding the perfect gift is an art, and if you’ve landed here, you’re already halfway there. Gifting a lush living plant goes a long way, all throughout the year and especially so during the holiday season: plants promote our well-being, they brighten our spaces, and they help us bring that unmistakable feeling of a cozy holiday home to life.

So go ahead and bring joy to faces and spaces this season with some of these curated ideas for all the special people in your life.

1. For The Green Thumb

2. For The New Plant Enthusiast

3. For The Traveler

4. For The Host

5. For The Pet Parent

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The Holiday Collection

Like the unmistakable smell of cookies baking in the oven or the soft glow of twinkling lights late into the night, there’s nothing cozier or more appealing than a warm holiday home. Shop a selection of holiday favorites to bring light, warmth and love to yours or a loved one's home, this season and beyond.

Shop The Collection

Albee Larry/Courtesy Longwood Gardens

Bio·​phil·​ia /ˌbī-ō-ˈfi-lē-ə  /-ˈfēl-yə : a desire or tendency to commune with nature

Explore the wonders of nature with us in our Léon & George Travels series as we delve into captivating biophilic experiences across the globe.

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Nestled in the picturesque Brandywine Creek Valley in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, you’ll find a sprawling botanical paradise known as Longwood Gardens. Spanning an impressive 1,077 acres, this horticultural masterpiece is among the most impressive display gardens in the United States, offering year-round access to a captivating world of native and exotic plants, both indoors and outdoors, as well as a testament to the artistry of horticulture and human hands.

A Glimpse into Longwood Gardens' Rich History

Longwood Gardens is so much more than a botanical garden. For thousands of years, the native Lenni Lenape tribe fished its streams, hunted its forests, and planted its fields, but how it got to be what it is today began in the early 20th century when industrialist Pierre S. du Pont purchased the property to save the trees from being harvested for lumber. Du Pont's vision was to create a garden that would not only be a sanctuary for plants but a place of art, science, and education.

Over the years, Longwood Gardens has evolved into one of the most remarkable horticultural displays in the world, sprawling across gardens, woodlands, and meadows, and is an awe-inspiring living work of art that continues to inspire generations.

Albee Larry/Courtesy Longwood Gardens

A Garden of Wonders

One of the most captivating aspects of Longwood Gardens is the sheer diversity of flora and the meticulous care that goes into maintaining them. As you wander through the grounds, you'll find yourself surrounded by a symphony of colors and fragrances, with each season bringing new surprises.

The Highlights of Longwood Gardens

• The Conservatory: The crown jewel of Longwood Gardens, the conservatory is a vast, four-acre indoor garden filled with an astonishing array of plants. Here, you'll encounter orchids, palms, and even a soaring treehouse that offers a unique perspective on the garden's beauty.

• The Main Fountain Garden: No visit to Longwood Gardens is complete without witnessing the Main Fountain Garden in all its splendor. This mesmerizing display features 750 jets that shoot water as high as 175 feet into the air, creating an intricate and choreographed dance of water and light. The historic Italian Water Garden, surrounding the fountains, adds a touch of timeless elegance to the spectacle. It's a place where the beauty of nature and the ingenuity of design come together in perfect harmony.

• The Meadow Garden: For those seeking a more naturalistic and wild experience, the Meadow Garden is a testament to the garden's commitment to preserving the environment and showcasing native flora. During the fall, the Meadow Garden bursts into a vibrant display of golden grasses and late-blooming wildflowers, offering a serene and contemplative contrast to the more formal gardens.

• The Idea Garden: This space serves as an educational garden, demonstrating various gardening techniques, creative ideas, and inspiring combinations of plants.

Albee Larry/Courtesy Longwood Gardens

Visiting in Autumn: The Annual Chrysanthemum Festival

While Longwood Gardens is a breathtaking destination year-round, there's something magical about visiting during the fall season. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, the garden takes on a completely new character. The crisp air, the scent of fallen leaves, and the vibrant foliage create an enchanting atmosphere that puts the pumpkin spice latte to shame.

What’s more, each fall Longwood Gardens holds its annual Chrysanthemum Festival, a spectacular showcase that brings an ancient artform practiced throughout Japan and China to the US. Fall’s favorite flower fills the gardens, with more than 5,000 colorful chrysanthemum plants that transform the Conservatory into an autumnal dream.

Visit Longwood Gardens

If you find yourself in this northeast pocket of the US, don’t think twice about making a visit to Longwood Gardens.

Longwood Gardens

1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348

Plant your visit to Longwood Gardens

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