botanicalcentric

Botanicalcentric is a term used to describe an approach or philosophy that places plants at the center of design, research, and cultural discourse. It encompasses practices in architecture, landscape design, horticulture, art, and digital media that prioritize plant life, plant health, and the ecological relationships among living organisms. As a neologism, botanicalcentric emerged in English-language design and ecology discourse in the early 21st century and is not tied to a specific school or organization.

Definitions may vary by context, but common elements include prioritizing living vegetation in spaces, integrating botanic knowledge into curricula, and evaluating projects by their botanical health and biodiversity outcomes rather than purely human-centered benefits.

Applications appear in biophilic design, urban green infrastructure, community gardens, botanical art installations, and product design that uses plant materials or plant-derived processes. The concept often contrasts with anthropocentric or technocratic approaches, arguing that plant vitality should influence decisions about space, materials, and function.

Critics note that botanicalcentric can be vague or aspirational and may gloss over practical constraints, maintenance costs, or ecological tradeoffs if not paired with rigorous planning and monitoring.

Related terms include biophilic design, garden pedagogy, sustainable design, and ecological horticulture.