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233: Houseplant Legends

This week, I’m speaking to horticulturist, journalist, host of the On the Ledge podcast, and author Jane Perrone about her book, Legends of the Leaf. We explore the wild origins, fascinating histories, and care requirements of iconic indoor plants—from Swiss cheese plants to Venus flytraps.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why Monstera leaves develop natural holes (fenestrations) in the wild

  • How to care for tricky carnivorous species like the Venus flytrap

  • The historic journeys of houseplants like Kentia palms and English ivy

  • How understanding a plant’s native habitat unlocks the secrets to indoor care

  • The cultural history and traditional uses of aloe vera and leopard lilies

Unlocking Houseplant Histories & Indoor Growing Secrets

Jane Perrone takes a deep dive beneath the surface of everyday houseplants to reveal how their natural environments shape their care needs today. Learn how understanding where your plants originate in the wild helps you troubleshoot care issues, avoid common indoor gardening mistakes, and help your collection thrive.

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Related Podcast Episodes from the Archives

If you enjoyed this houseplant masterclass with Jane Perrone, check out these related episodes on indoor plant design and styling:

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