Plants That Hold a Story - Nostalgia in the Garden

It’s the peak of summer in New Zealand. Gardens are bursting with life, full of vibrant colours, fragrant flowers, and the hum of pollinators. For many, certain plants evoke strong emotions, reminding them of happy childhood times or memorable moments.

As a designer, I often meet clients who have a deep-seated love (or even an aversion) to specific plants. It’s not just about aesthetics; plants hold meaning beyond their appearance. Their scent, texture, and even the way they grow can often be a trigger for nostalgia.

Personal Nostalgic Favourites

• Fuchsias were always a childhood favourite, with their vibrant, swooping flowers - who else remembers popping the buds?

• Dianthus, with its rich, clove-like fragrance always transports me back, lingering in the air, tied to an old garden bed. 

• Roses inspire fond memories for me, including picking them for Nana, only to realise (too late) that I had stripped the flowers without the stems! 

• Peas were a staple of my childhood, stuffing my pockets with them straight off the vine before they were even ready to eat. 

A garden is more than just a collection of plants; it’s a peaceful place to relax, entertain and enjoy.       

Why Certain Plants Hold Sentimental Value                                  

Plants have a unique way of anchoring memories. A single scent or even texture can transport us back in time.

• The Power of Scent, Sight, and Touch. Our senses are deeply tied to memory. The fragrance of lavender might remind you of a grandmother’s drawer liners, while the soft, velvety petals of a rose bring back childhood afternoons in the garden.

• Generational Gardening. Some plants are passed down through families, either as cuttings, seeds, or simply through tradition. Hydrangeas, for example, often stand as legacy plants in family homes.

• Emotional Garden Design. A well-designed garden isn’t just visually appealing—it’s meaningful. By combining aesthetic appeal with meaning, we create outdoor spaces that are unique to you.

Plants That Evoke Nostalgia (And How to Use Them in Your Garden)

Here are some classics that may bring back memories and ways to weave them into your own garden.

1. Fuchsias: The Childhood Favourite

• Loved for their vibrant, hanging flowers.

• A plant to engage with—kids love popping the buds!

• How to use: Ideal for hanging baskets, shaded garden beds, or adding a tropical feel to a space.

2. Dianthus: The Scent of the Past

• Spicy, clove-like fragrance that fills the air.

• A staple in old-fashioned cottage gardens.

• How to use: Perfect for borders, pots, and planting near seating areas to fully enjoy the scent.

3. Roses: A Classic with Deep-Rooted Memories

• The scent of an old garden, or a reminder of picking flowers for loved ones.

• How to use: Train them up trellises, plant as hedges, or grow in pots for a modern touch.

4. The Tree Hut Tree: A Childhood Fortress

• Whether it was a sturdy pōhutukawa, a sprawling oak, or a classic old plum tree, many childhoods were spent climbing, swinging, and building secret hideouts in a favourite tree.

• A symbol of adventure, independence, and countless hours of fun.

• How to use: If space allows, plant a strong, climbable tree like a liquidambar, oak, or fruiting plum—great for shade, play, and creating new family traditions.

5. Hydrangeas: The Grandmother’s Garden Icon

• Large, bold flowers that change colour depending on soil acidity.

• A staple in classic Kiwi gardens.

• How to use: Ideal for borders, under trees, or as a striking garden feature.

6. Feijoas: The Backyard Feeder

• A staple in New Zealand gardens; almost every Kiwi kid has memories of raiding a feijoa tree!

• How to use: Perfect as a fruiting hedge that also provides evergreen structure.

7. Lavender: The Healer and Relaxer

• A plant linked to childhood medicine cabinets and soothing bedtime routines.

• How to use: Plant along pathways, edges, or in sensory gardens for its calming fragrance.

8. Peonies: The Wedding Flower

• Often associated with special occasions and lush, romantic gardens.

• How to use: Best for cooler climates, adding elegance and a touch of luxury to the garden.

Bringing Nostalgia into Your Own Garden

How do you design a garden that’s both personal and visually stunning? It’s all about balance.

Design with Emotion

Start by selecting plants that hold meaning for you. Which flowers remind you of childhood? Which trees were in your family’s garden?

Create Multi-Sensory Experiences 

Mix plants that appeal to different senses: fragrant lavender, textured lamb’s ear, rustling ornamental grasses.

Blend Nostalgia with Modern Aesthetics 

Yes, you can have a designer garden that still feels personal! Pair old favourites with contemporary landscaping elements for a timeless look.

More Than Just a Pretty Garden

Gardens are deeply personal spaces, shaped by memories, experiences and the plants we love. They connect us to the past while offering a place to create new moments with family and friends.

So, what are the plants that take you back?