Cemetery Plant Traditions in the 1800s

Cemetery Plant Traditions in the 1800s. . "Plants are an essential part of every old burial ground and deserve the same respect and care as any other historic artifact..."

Preserving Plants in Historic Burial Grounds by Scott G. Kunst

Floriology: The Language of Flowers

Floral Symbolism
Adorning graves with flowers is a worldwide tradition that dates back to ancient times. Throughout history, plants have played a role in cemetery landscaping and gravestone adornment. The symbolic meanings of plants were popularized during the 19th century and are reflected in heritage plantings, monuments and gravestone engravings.

Dogwood: Resurrection, sacrifice, eternal life.
Fern: Sincerity, humility
Red Rose: Passion
Ivy: Affection, strength
Willow: Sadness, mourning
Daffodil: Rebirth
Lily: Innocence, hope, charity

Once Welcome, Now Invasive
Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
This evergreen ground cover thrives in shady conditions. In the past, cemetery caretakers planted periwinkle beneath trees as a method to control briars and grass. Deemed an invasive species, periwinkle forms dense mats, crowding out other plants. It should be maintained and kept from spreading into natural areas.

English ivy (Hedera helix)
This transplant arrived in American cemeteries from England in the Victorian age. Now listed as an invasive species, English ivy has the potential to damage trees, monuments and tombstones.

Native Plant Alternatives
Native plants occur naturally in a habitat, have co-evolved with other species, and have adapted to physical conditions over time.

Native ground covers:

Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata)
After blooming, this moss-like, green ground cover can be trimmed to encourage growth.

Golden ragwort (Packera aurea)
Spreads slowly by underground rhizomes to form an ideal ground cover for moist, shady landscapes.

Lofty Trees
Evergreen trees such as cedars, yews, and firs retain their verdant foliage throughout the year, symbolizing "eternal life" in cemetery settings. Renowned for their longevity, strength, and vibrant fall colors, maple, oak, and elm trees also stand prominently in cemetery landscapes.

This program is made possible by a grant from The Patapsco Valley Heritage Area, a certified heritage area of the Maryland Heritages Area Authority

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