x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

The History of Plants by Plantrums

Strange botany, deadly plants, and forgotten flora. History of Plants is a biweekly podcast uncovering the wild ways plants shaped human history. Hosted by horticultural writer Megan Brame. New episodes every other week.

history history

All Episodes

00:21:17

The Deadliest Plant in Your Garden?

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/10/24

This episode dives into the dark history and lasting legends of Wolbane (Aconitum/Monkshood)—the “queen of poisons.” Unpack how this deceptively beautiful flower shaped myth, medicine, and murder, from werewolf lore to ancient crimes. Learn why even a touch is dangerous and why it’s haunted the imagination for centuries.Subscribe to The History of Plants – Strange Botany, Poisonous Legends & Forgotten Flora on Soundwise

en

00:24:59

The Plant That Saved Humanity from Extinction

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/10/24

Uncover the shocking true story of the plant that changed medicine—and the course of empires. This episode dives into the legacy of Cinchona, the tree behind quinine, the world’s first real malaria treatment. Learn how quinine fueled centuries of colonial power struggles, prompted bold smuggling operations, and sparked both scientific revolutions and scandal. Explore its role in global health, mythology, and cultural obsession, and see why this “miracle cure” had a dark side that echoes through

en

00:19:18

How Coffee Changed the World Forever

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/09/26

From mystical rituals in Ethiopia to fueling revolutions in Europe, coffee has shaped culture, commerce, and controversy for over a thousand years. This episode dives into the hidden history of Coffea arabica—a bean that became both a sacred drink and a global obsession.Subscribe to The History of Plants – Strange Botany, Poisonous Legends & Forgotten Flora on Soundwise

en

00:18:40

Opium Poppy: The Flower That Shaped Empires 🌺

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/09/12

Join me as I explore how this unassuming plant evolved from a Neolithic food source into a global force that redefined medicine, fueled wars, and inspired poets. From ancient Egypt’s rituals to the opium wars, this flower’s journey is one of contradictions—healing and harm, relief and dependence.Subscribe for more History of Plants & wild botany: /@plantrums — 🪴 Resources & Links • Patreon (commentary & early access): https://patreon.com/plantrums • Etsy (plant cuttings &

en

00:22:00

The Shocking Myths and Secrets Behind Cinnamon

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/08/29

From its mysterious origins in the laurel family to its role in myths, rituals, and even colonial conquest, cinnamon's legacy is anything but ordinary. Did you know what’s sitting in your pantry might be an impostor? I'll share the wild truth about the great cinnamon switch, from the difference between true cinnamon and cassia to the surprising health risks hiding in plain sight.This episode of *The History of Plants* dives deep into the ethnobotany, history, and botany of cinnamon, revealing

en

00:19:36

Monstera Deliciosa: From Jungle Survivor to Icon 🌿

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/08/08

Join me as we uncover the incredible journey of the Monstera Deliciosa 🌿—from its humble beginnings as a jungle survivor to its rise as a global design icon. In this episode, I’ll share the fascinating history, biology, and cultural impact of this beloved plant, revealing its prehistoric roots, its surprising uses in traditional medicine, and even the secrets behind its iconic fenestrated leaves.Subscribe to The History of Plants – Strange Botany, Poisonous Legends & Forgotten Flora on

en

00:06:33

3 Killer Plants That Don’t Even Need to Move 🌱

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/07/25

🌱 Join me in this special bonus episode as we explore "3 Killer Plants That Don’t Even Move"! Celebrate 10,000 subscribers with me as we uncover the wild, weird, and wonderfully botanical stories of the Venus Fly Trap, Nepenthes, and Genlisea. These predators may not move, but their evolutionary genius will blow your mind! From the Venus Fly Trap's ingenious double-tap rule to the Nepenthes' collaborative strategy and Genlisea's underground meat grinder, I’m sharing my favorite finds and

en

00:19:39

Venus Flytrap: The Plant That Breaks Nature’s Rules

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/07/18

Step into the boggy, sunlit wetlands of the Carolinas with me as I uncover the fascinating story of the Venus Flytrap—the plant that breaks nature’s rules! 🌱 This incredible predator defies expectations, thriving in nutrient-poor soil by actively hunting its prey with precision and intelligence. From its curious discovery by European naturalists to sparking one of science’s greatest debates, this botanical marvel has captured imaginations for centuries. Join me as I explore its unique biology, the

en

00:14:39

Soma: The Lost Plant That Promised Immortality 🌱

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/07/04

What if there was a plant so divine it was worshiped as a god and promised immortality? 🌱 In this episode of The History of Plants, I dive into the enduring mystery of Soma—the lost plant that captivated ancient Vedic traditions and continues to intrigue scholars and mystics today. Join me as we explore its origins in Vedic India, its role in sacred rituals, and the vivid descriptions of its transformative powers in ancient texts like the Rigveda. Could it grant immortality, divine visions, and a

en

00:24:34

The Orchid's Dark Past: Obsession, Mystery, and...

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/06/19

Step into the mesmerizing world of orchids with me as we uncover "The Orchid's Dark Past: Obsession, Mystery, and Survival 🌸." From their ancient origins 200 million years ago to their role in Victorian-era orchid mania and modern conservation battles, orchids have captured humanity's imagination like no other plant. 🌺 Explore their fascinating journey through time, from ancient Greece and Chinese medicine to their symbolic ties to fertility, royalty, and even danger.In this episode, I’ll share

en

00:20:19

The Blue Lotus: Egypt's Sacred & Scandalous Bloom 🌸

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/05/25

Discover the fascinating history and allure of the Blue Lotus, Egypt's sacred and scandalous bloom 🌸. In this episode of "The History of Plants," I explore how this striking flower captivated the hearts of ancient civilizations. From its symbolic ties to gods like Ra and Nefertim to its mysterious role in rituals, parties, and even secretive gatherings, the Blue Lotus held a profound place in Egyptian culture. Was it purely spiritual, or did its effects extend into the earthly and

en

00:16:01

Henbane: The Dark Plant Behind Witches & Warriors

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/05/07

Step into the mysterious world of henbane, the dark plant entwined with witches, warriors, and ancient rituals. In this captivating episode of "The History of Plants," I explore henbane's shadowy past—from its role in Viking berserker rage to its eerie presence in witchcraft and medieval poisonings. Discover how this "stinky nightshade" has influenced history, mythology, and even modern medicine. What secrets lie in its powerful chemistry, and how did it blur the lines between healing and harm,

en

00:16:18

The Dramatic History of Tea: Spies, Rebellion, and...

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/04/21

The story of tea is anything but ordinary—it’s a tale of spies, rebellion, and fortune that changed the world! 🌍 Join me as we uncover the dramatic history of this beloved beverage, from its legendary origins in ancient China to its role in global power struggles and revolutions. Did you know tea inspired daring espionage missions, ignited rebellions like the Boston Tea Party, and shaped entire economies?In this episode of "History of Plants," I’ll share compelling stories of cultural exchange,

en

00:20:53

How Grass Shaped the World

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/04/09

Grass—the silent force that shaped our world 🌍. From the extinction of dinosaurs to the rise of agriculture, this humble plant has profoundly influenced ecosystems, civilizations, and even human survival. Join me as we uncover the incredible history of grass, from its ancient beginnings to its role in transforming landscapes, fueling revolutions, and shaping cultures around the globe. 🌾In this episode of "The History of Plants," I explore how grasslands became the foundation for agriculture,

en

00:15:07

Begonia's Secret Journey Through Time 🌱

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/03/20

What if your favorite houseplant held secrets spanning millions of years? 🌱 Join me as I uncover the fascinating story of Begonia’s secret journey through time—an adventure that started in ancient forests and continues today, right on your windowsill. From ancient fossils in Alabama to their rise as Victorian garden treasures, Begonias have captivated hearts across continents and

en

00:12:54

Forbidden Flower - The Story of Amaranth

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/03/04

Join me on an incredible journey through history as we uncover the story of amaranth: the sacred grain that refused to die! 🌾 From its ancient origins in South and Central America to its revered role in Aztec rituals and its dramatic suppression by conquistadors, amaranth's resilience is nothing short of inspiring. I’ll share how this fascinating plant survived near extinction to become a modern superfood packed with nutrition and potential.Discover how early farmers cultivated this grain, how it

en

00:16:05

What Happened To The Plant That Was Worth More Than...

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/02/19

Get ready to uncover the incredible story of silphium—"The Lost Plant That Shaped Empires 🌱."This ancient botanical treasure once held the power to control economies, influence empires, and change the course of history. But how could something so valuable vanish forever? Join me as we explore the fascinating rise and tragic disappearance of this extraordinary plant, from its role in Cyrene’s prosperity to its mysterious extinction. Was it overharvesting, climate change, or something more? Let’s

en

00:14:19

The Secret Life of Plants: Marcel Vogel's...

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/02/04

In this captivating episode of The History of Plants, host Megan Brame delves into the fascinating life and research of Marcel Vogel, an IBM scientist turned botanical innovator who dared to explore the uncharted territory of plant consciousness. Learn about Vogel’s near-death experience as a child, his groundbreaking work in phosphor chemistry, and his unexpected venture into the psychic abilities of plants. Discover how he transformed from a prolific inventor at IBM to a passionate advocate for a

en

00:15:44

The Wild History of Basil: Sacred, Scary, and Strange!

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/01/22

Imagine an unassuming green leaf that has influenced civilizations, sparked spiritual debates, and maybe even had the power to create scorpions. In this episode, host Megan Brame takes a deep dive into the fascinating history of basil. From its ancient cultural significance in India and Egypt to its tumultuous reception in Greece and Rome, and bizarre associations involving scorpions and supernatural powers, discover how this ubiquitous herb became intertwined with human history. Whether you're a

en

00:17:52

Behind the scenes of the Dieffenbachia episode

The History of Plants by Plantrums ·

2025/01/07

A little commentary on how the first episode came to be and where this podcast is going.Don't worry, "The history of the history of plants" won't be featured regularly; I'll keep the main stories front and center. If you'd like to hear more commentary episodes, check out Plantrums' Patreon account for behind-the-scenes, plant project fails, and more! https://patreon.com/Plantrums Subscribe to The History of Plants by Plantrums on Soundwise

en

21 results

Similar Podcasts

The Old Front Line

Paul Reed

Today In History with The Retrospectors

The Retrospectors

جنود خلدهم التاريخ

ALSUMOOD PODCAST

Film History - Daily

Inception Point Ai

Madonna - Audio Biography

Inception Point Ai