People have had plant companions since the hanging gardens of Babylon—but how did we start keeping plants in our living spaces, and why?

From ancient Rome to Victorian England, this botanical adventure takes you through the colorful and curious history of the not-so-humble houseplant.

Taming the Potted Beast presents the history of plant-human relations in an entertaining narrative, detailing surprisingly dramatic stories of houseplant cultivation and domestication.

Including historical vignettes, colorful illustrations, and DIY plant projects and growing tips for the modern indoor gardener, this is a fun and fascinating investigation of people and their houseplants throughout the ages.