Cultural Connection

Acknowledging our inseparable connection to nature

Over thousands of years, Indigenous Peoples developed knowledge and practices to live in balance with the living world.

Cultural Connection

Plants that draw the spirit world near

During this time of seasonal transition, many cultures believe the barrier separating the physical world from the spirit world is weakest.

Cultural Connection

Floral wedding traditions around the world

A short walk around Cornell Botanic Gardens in August unveils a diversity of blooms included in wedding ceremonies around the world.

Cultural Connection

Indigo: plant of culture and color

The story of indigo shares the skill and resilience of enslaved Africans and their descendants.

Cultural Connection

Spring blooms embody hope and new beginnings

Many plants that bloom in spring have come to signify hope, rebirth, and renewal.

Cultural Connection

For the Love of Chocolate

Have you thought about when and why chocolate became part of Valentine’s Day traditions?

Cultural Connection

A Touch of Plant Magic

Stories of three plants associated with the origins and traditions of Halloween

Cultural Connection

Ripples of lavender honor Pride month

A rich bouquet of flowers found throughout Cornell’s Botanic Gardens hold meaning for the LGBTQ+ community, which has long embraced the six colors of the rainbow: red for life; orange for healing; yellow for sunlight; green for nature; indigo for serenity; violet for spirit.

Cultural Connection

Which plant is the real shamrock?

The shamrock has been a familiar symbol of Irish culture for hundreds of years, but do you know which plant is the real shamrock?