There are plenty of books on how to look after houseplants but no one has shown us how, when and why these plants came to be found in our homes. In this fascinating book we learn how potted plants are as subject to fashion as pieces of furniture. For the Victorians it was the aspidistra in the front parlor; for us it is the orchid in the designer loft. We find that Wedgwood created a market for special bulb pots and that some of Conran's early designs were for houseplant containers. Then there is the story of mignonette - a modest plant but once prized in every home for its intoxicating scent. Now that scent is lost to us for ever. Catherine Horwood's novel combination of social history, plant history and the history of interior design is intriguing. Her illustrations come from a variety of unusual sources since potted plants may be found in many unexpected corners.

An accessible history of Preston from prehistory to the present day highlighting the city’s significant events and people.

An accessible history of Lichfield from prehistory to the present day highlighting the city’s significant events and people.

An accessible history of Wakefield from prehistory to the present day highlighting the city’s significant events and people.

An accessible history of Cork from its beginnings to the present day, following a walking trail highlighting the city’s significant events and people.

An accessible history of Southampton from its beginnings to the present day highlighting the city’s significant events and people.

Catherine Horwood explores the role of houseplants and cut flowers in the home and has combined social history, plant history and the history of interior design.