Christopher Griffin, known to many as the “Plant Kween,” never imagined that his deep connection to nature would become his identity. However, this bond with the natural world began long before he was born, rooted in his family’s history.
Griffin’s grandmother, who grew up on a farm in Clayton, Georgia, developed a deep appreciation for the land, a passion she carried with her even after moving to Philadelphia. There, as a single mother, she found comfort in plants, passing this love of nature to her children and grandchildren. Griffin fondly recalls how his grandmother’s garden, which she carefully curated, brought her immense joy. From a young age, Griffin was drawn to this green world, and over time, his interest blossomed into a lifelong love for plants.
In 2015, seeking calm in a chaotic world, Griffin purchased his first plant. That simple act has since grown into a flourishing indoor garden in his Brooklyn apartment, with over 200 plants today.
Caring for plants is not always easy, but Griffin finds peace in the routine. “My plants give me a sense of accountability,” he says. “They rely on me to care for them, which brings me stability and responsibility. As someone with anxiety, these are powerful things to have control over.”
For Griffin, plants also provide a much-needed retreat from the fast-paced life in New York City. “While the city has green spaces, they aren’t always accessible,” he explains. “Waking up surrounded by nature is calming. Research shows that plants can reduce stress and improve focus, and for me, my plants create a peaceful environment. It’s a place where I can float, exist, and prepare for the challenges of the next day.”
While plant care may seem daunting, especially for someone with anxiety, Griffin embraces the process. “Give yourself grace because the rewards are immense,” he advises. “Gardening is about trial and error, curiosity, and experimentation. It’s a valuable life philosophy, especially for Black people. Sometimes, we plant seeds whose fruits we may never see, but future generations will. Plants remind us to take care of ourselves, to nourish and grow, even through loss.”
Beyond his passion for gardening, Griffin has cultivated a life centered on joy and boundaries. “My family brings me happiness, even through our losses. They are my foundation,” he shares. “I also have a close-knit group of friends who support me. And then there’s me—I’m a party all on my own.” Griffin enjoys solo travel, cycling, and finding new ways to experience joy.
Griffin’s love for plants led him to share his knowledge with the world. In 2020, HarperCollins reached out to him to write a book. The result was *You Grow, Gurl!: Plant Kween’s Guide to Growing Your Garden*, a personal project that reflects his journey.
“I wrote the book in four months and photographed it during the same time,” he recalls. “It was a beautiful process, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Writing every day gave me focus. The book is a tangible representation of that period and serves as a resource for others. It’s full of stories about my grandmother, plant parent encounters, and includes meditation, breathing exercises, playlists, and practical advice. It’s especially for Black people, showing how plants can help in healing.”
Related topics: