Ancient history

What did ancient Egyptians have in their gardens?

The ancient Egyptians were skilled horticulturists and had elaborate gardens filled with a variety of plants. Some of the plants they cultivated include:

1. Date Palms: Date palms were highly valued for their sweet and nutritious fruits, and they were often grown in gardens for their shade and beauty.

2. Olive Trees: Olive trees were grown for their olives, which were used to produce oil for cooking and religious ceremonies.

3. Fig Trees: Fig trees were prized for their delicious fruits and were considered a symbol of fertility.

4. Acacia Trees: Acacia trees were prized for their fragrant flowers, which were used in religious rituals and for making perfume.

5. Lotus Plants: Lotus plants were associated with the sun god Ra and were often grown in ponds and water features in gardens.

6. Pomegranates: Pomegranate trees were grown for their tart and juicy fruits, which were considered symbols of fertility and abundance.

7. Herbs and Spices: Various herbs and spices, such as mint, coriander, thyme, and cumin, were grown in gardens for culinary and medicinal purposes.

8. Vegetables: Vegetables like lettuce, onions, radishes, and cucumbers were also grown for consumption.

The ancient Egyptians also grew ornamental plants for aesthetic purposes, such as jasmine, lilies, and marigolds. Gardens were often designed to be visually pleasing and to provide shade and relaxation.