Some plants have been around so long , they ’ve seen empires rise and fall — and they ’re still growing strong in gardens and windowsill today . These are n’t just survivor ; they ’re living links to rituals , remedies , and beliefs from M of old age ago .
multitude once planted them for protection , healing , or to honor the gods . Today , we develop many of them without even realise the import they once go for . From the sacred lotus to frankincense , these 17 ancient plants were deeply woven into the casual lives and spiritual globe of preceding civilizations — and they ’re still right here with us , quietly persuade all that history .
Olive Tree
The Olea europaea tree diagram , with its silver - green leaf shimmering under the Mediterranean sun , has been a symbolization of pacification and prosperity for centuries .
Its gnarly trunk tells tales of ancient civilizations , from the Greeks to the Romans , who revered it not only for its fruit but also for its rock oil .
Today , its bequest continues , gracing landscapes and providing a fruitful harvest . The olive ’s timeless front reminds us of nature ’s support gift and the rich story it be , connecting us to a world long by yet still cherished .
Lotus Flower
Floating graciously on serene ponds , the lotus flower is an emblem of sinlessness and enlightenment in many civilization .
From the murky waters , it rises , light and beautiful , a will to resiliency and renewal . Ancient Egyptians and Buddhists alike found spiritual significance in its blooming flower petal .
Even today , the lotus enchants onlookers with its ethereal peach and symbolic meanings , bid a plash of quietude and a reminder of life-time ’s unplumbed transformation .
© Gardenista
Ginkgo Biloba
The Ginkgo biloba biloba , often call a living fogy , is a tree that has survived unaltered for million of long time .
Its lover - shaped parting wrench a brilliant gold in autumn , captivating viewer . Revered in ancient Chinese medicine , it ’s celebrated for its healing dimension .
Today , this bouncy tree diagram lines city streets and garden , a symbol of endurance and seniority , bridging the ancient and modern worlds with its graceful presence .
Lavender
Lavender ’s patrician purple blooms and soothing scent have been cherished since ancient times .
From Roman baths to Egyptian mummification , its utilisation were as varied as its supporter . The tranquilize fragrance is just as darling today , often used in aromatherapy and skin care .
Its vivacious fields create visual serenity , invite bees and gardeners alike . Lavender ’s timeless allure lies in its power to comfort and heal , bridge over century with its fragrant bosom .
© anythingwet.com.au
Wheat
Wheat , the prosperous grain , has been a staple food for civilizations for thousands of twelvemonth .
Its culture set the dawn of agricultural society , feeding empires and shaping cultures . From ancient Egyptian dinero to modern pasta , straw ’s journeying is intertwined with human history .
Today , it continue to nourish and sustain , a testament to its vital role in our culinary inheritance .
Sage
Sage , with its soft , velvety leaves , has been valued for its wisdom - stimulate properties since ancient time .
Used in rituals and cooking , it was believed to enhance genial clarity and seniority . In ancient Rome , sage was see consecrated and was glean with special ceremonies .
Today , its earthy aroma and healing qualities make it a staple in kitchen and herbal remedies , bridge ancient wisdom and modern utility .
© Pacific Nurseries
Bamboo
Bamboo , with its rapid growth and enduringness , has been a symbol of resilience and flexibility in Asiatic cultures for one C .
Used for everything from build materials to paper , its versatility is unmatched . In ancient China , bamboo was a symbolisation of integrity and virtuousness .
Today , it continues to inspire , providing eco - friendly solutions and aesthetic beauty in landscape painting , connecting past traditions with future innovations .
Rosemary
Rosemary , the herb of remembrance , has a rich history date back to ancient Greece and Rome .
Used in rituals and festivities , it symbolized trueness and love . With its distinctive fragrance , rosemary has found its way into kitchens worldwide .
Its resilience and hardiness make it a favorite among gardeners , perpetuating its bequest of fragrant beauty and culinary delight .
© Clovers Garden
Rice
Rice , the lifeblood of countless cultures , has been cultivated for over 5,000 long time .
In Asia , it is more than just food for thought ; it ’s a cultural raw material woven into tradition and rite . From ancient Formosan dynasty to modern kitchen , rice sustains jillion .
Its versatility and significance endure , continue to nourish bodies and souls alike .
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera , with its succulent leaves , has been a symbolisation of healing since ancient times .
The Egyptians called it the “ plant of immortality , ” using it in embalming and medicine . Today , its soothing gelatin is a coarse redress for burn and peel ailment .
Its resilience in harsh condition underscores its enduring appealingness , bridging ancient cure and contemporary health .
© Foodwise
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums , with their vibrant blooms , have been lionise since ancient China as symbol of delight and longevity .
They were revered for their sweetheart and used in traditional medication . Their presence in art and poetry reflects their cultural grandness .
Today , these cheerful flowers continue to adorn gardens and homes , embodying the liveliness of celebration and the passage of meter .
Cedar
The cedar tree , bang for its redolent wood and towering presence , has been a symbolization of strength and eternity .
Used in ancient temples and ship , its wood was value for its durability and scent . In Lebanon , it ’s a home allegory , correspond pride and heritage .
Today , cedar continues to be cherished in landscape gardening and building , its legacy rooted in account and tradition .
© Sow Right Seeds
Pomegranate
The Punica granatum , with its jewel - like seed , has been a symbol of fertility rate and abundance since antiquity .
In Grecian mythology , it played a important role in the tale of Persephone . Rich in nutrients , it was used in medicine and cuisine .
Today , its vivacious fruit and cultural significance continue to captivate , volunteer a taste of ancient wisdom and modern health welfare .
Papyrus
Papyrus , the plant that make us newspaper publisher , has been constitutional to human communicating for grand of twelvemonth .
In ancient Egypt , it was used to create roll and documents , turn on the transcription of history and knowledge . Its stringy stalk were woven into mats and baskets as well .
Today , its diachronic significance stay , offering a glimpse into the stemma of written nomenclature and cultural remembering .
© The Spruce
Cypress
cypress tree trees , with their marvelous and slender forms , have been associated with lamentation and eternity since ancient civilizations .
Used in funerary ritual and as symbols of immortality , they beautify graveyards and sacred sites . The ancient Greeks and Romans hero-worship them for their phantasmal signification .
Today , cypress tree trees continue to grace landscapes , offering both beauty and a association to timeless traditions .
Hibiscus
The hibiscus , with its bold and beautiful salad days , has been a symbolic representation of delicate lulu and good luck charm .
In ancient refinement , it was used in offerings and ceremony . Its vivacious colors and enceinte petals draw attention and admiration .
Today , hibiscus continues to captivate , used in teas and ribbon , embodying a sense of tropical temptingness and innate elegance .
© Garden Design
Amaranth
Amaranth , with its bright , crimson flower spikes , has been cultivated for thousand of years , cherished by ancient civilizations for both its beauty and nutritional value . Often colligate with immortality , this works symbolizes resilience and strength , thrive even in pathetic soil shape .
In ancient Greek mythology , Amaranth was regarded as a symbol of everlasting life story , often adorning the temples of the divinity . Its seed , highly nutritious , are still consumed today , offering a copious informant of protein and all important minerals .
Whether gracing gardens or kitchen , Amaranth remains a timeless testament to nature ’s bounty and adaptability .
© Better Homes & Gardens
© Planet Desert
© Better Homes & Gardens
© Chief River Nursery
© The Sill
© Gardening Know How
© Eureka Farms
© The Columbus Dispatch
© Kids Seed Co.
