17 Songs About Plants

Welcome to “Songs About Plants,” a carefully curated playlist that celebrates the beauty, mystery, and symbolism of the plant kingdom through music. From timeless classics to modern hits, each track on this playlist explores the profound connection between nature and human emotion. 

So, sit back, relax, and let the music transport you to a verdant landscape where melodies bloom and rhythms grow. 

1. “Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary”

“Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary” is an English nursery rhyme first published in 1744 in Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book. The rhyme is known for its simple yet enigmatic lyrics:

Mary, Mary, quite contrary,

How does your garden grow?

With silver bells, and cockle shells,

And pretty maids all in a row.

The meaning of the rhyme is widely debated. Some interpretations suggest it refers to historical figures like Mary I of England (Bloody Mary) or Mary, Queen of Scots. The “garden” could symbolize the realm they ruled, while “silver bells” and “cockle shells” might be metaphors for Catholic symbols or even torture devices. “Pretty maids all in a row” has been interpreted as nuns, ladies-in-waiting, or even victims of executions.

2. “Plastic Plants” by Mahalia

“Plastic Plants” by Mahalia, released on May 1, 2020, is an R&B track that delves into the theme of disillusionment in romantic relationships. The song uses the metaphor of “plastic plants” to describe insincere and superficial gestures from a partner. The protagonist yearns for a love filled with genuine affection and grand romantic gestures, akin to those seen in movies. However, the reality falls short, leaving them with “plastic plants” instead of real romance.

The lyrics highlight the protagonist’s frustration and disappointment, as they realize their partner’s lack of depth and genuine emotion. The chorus emphasizes the protagonist’s desire to express their pent-up emotions and their decision to move on from the unfulfilling relationship.

3. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” by Neil Diamond & Barbra Streisand

“You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” is a duet by Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand, released in 1978. The song is a poignant ballad about the fading romance between two people. The lyrics reflect the sadness and disappointment of a couple who have grown apart over time. The metaphor of not bringing flowers symbolizes the absence of the small, thoughtful gestures that once kept their love alive.

The song’s emotional depth is conveyed through the powerful vocal performances of Diamond and Streisand, making it a timeless classic that resonates with anyone who has experienced the decline of a once-passionate relationship.

4. “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran

“Supermarket Flowers” is a song by Ed Sheeran from his 2017 album ÷ (Divide). The song is a heartfelt tribute to Sheeran’s late grandmother, written from the perspective of his mother. The lyrics describe the process of clearing out his grandmother’s belongings, including supermarket flowers, and reflect on the memories and emotions associated with her passing.

The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics capture the sense of loss and the bittersweet nature of remembering a loved one. “Supermarket Flowers” stands out as a deeply personal and emotional piece in Sheeran’s repertoire, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar losses.

5. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles

“Strawberry Fields Forever” is a song by The Beatles, written by John Lennon and released in 1967 as a double A-side single with “Penny Lane.” The song is named after Strawberry Field, a Salvation Army children’s home in Liverpool, where Lennon played as a child. Despite its upbeat melody, the song has a somber tone, reflecting Lennon’s feelings of nostalgia and disillusionment. The lyrics explore themes of escapism and the blurred lines between reality and imagination, encapsulated in lines like “Nothing is real and nothing to get hung about” and “Living is easy with eyes closed” . The song is notable for its innovative production techniques, including reverse-recorded instrumentation and a complex arrangement that combines different versions of the track.

6. “Venus’ Flytrap and the Bug” by Stevie Wonder

“Venus’ Flytrap and the Bug” is a track from Stevie Wonder’s 1979 album Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants. The song uses the metaphor of a Venus flytrap and a bug to explore themes of love and entrapment. The lyrics depict a conversation between the flytrap and the bug, where the bug pleads not to be consumed, symbolizing a relationship where one party feels trapped and vulnerable. The song is part of an album that delves into the interconnectedness of nature and human emotions, blending Wonder’s soulful melodies with intricate storytelling.

7. “Lemon Tree” by Peter, Paul, and Mary

“Lemon Tree” is a folk song written by Will Holt in the late 1950s and popularized by various artists, including Peter, Paul, and Mary. The song draws a parallel between love and a lemon tree, with the lyrics stating, “Lemon tree very pretty, and the lemon flower is sweet, but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.” This metaphor suggests that while love can appear beautiful and sweet, it often has a bitter and difficult side. Peter, Paul, and Mary’s version, released in 1962, helped the song gain widespread recognition and marked their first appearance on the US Hot 100 chart.

8. “Lotus Flower” by Radiohead

“Lotus Flower” is a song by Radiohead from their 2011 album The King of Limbs. The song features Thom Yorke’s falsetto vocals over a backdrop of syncopated beats and a synthesizer bassline. The lyrics of “Lotus Flower” are abstract and open to interpretation, but they generally convey themes of transformation and self-discovery. The lotus flower, which blooms beautifully even in muddy waters, serves as a metaphor for personal growth and resilience. The song’s music video, featuring Yorke’s erratic dancing, became an internet sensation and contributed to the song’s popularity.

9. “Kiss From A Rose” by Seal

“Kiss From A Rose” is a song by British singer-songwriter Seal, released in 1994 as part of his second eponymous album Seal II. The song gained massive popularity after being featured in the 1995 film Batman Forever. Despite its commercial success, Seal originally felt embarrassed by the song and almost discarded it before presenting it to producer Trevor Horn, who helped turn it into a hit.

The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and open to various interpretations. Some fans speculate it could be about drug use, love, or even a journey to the afterlife. Seal himself has been intentionally vague about the song’s meaning, suggesting that it is meant to evoke personal interpretations from listeners rather than provide a definitive narrative. The haunting melody and Seal’s distinctive voice contribute to its lasting appeal.

10. “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye

“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a classic Motown song written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong. Although it was first recorded by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, and later by Gladys Knight & the Pips, it was Marvin Gaye’s 1968 version that became the most famous. Gaye’s rendition is noted for its haunting vocal timbre and intense emotional delivery, which helped it become a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts.

The song’s lyrics describe the pain and betrayal felt upon discovering infidelity through rumors, metaphorically referred to as hearing it “through the grapevine.” This theme of mistrust and heartbreak resonated with many listeners, making it one of Motown’s most enduring hits. Gaye’s version is often praised for its sophisticated arrangement and the powerful, soulful performance that has cemented its place in music history.

11. “The Return of the Giant Hogweed” by Genesis

“The Return of the Giant Hogweed” is a track from Genesis’ 1971 album Nursery Cryme. Written by members Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, Steve Hackett, and Mike Rutherford, the song humorously narrates the fictional spread of the giant hogweed plant (Heracleum mantegazzianum) in England. The lyrics depict the plant as a vengeful, invasive species threatening to overrun human civilization.

The song combines progressive rock elements with vivid storytelling, using the giant hogweed as a metaphor for unchecked ecological invasion. The music features complex arrangements and innovative guitar techniques, including Hackett’s early use of tapping. The song’s imaginative narrative and dynamic composition have made it a standout track in Genesis’ early catalog, showcasing their ability to blend intricate musicianship with compelling, whimsical tales.

12. “Two Dozen Roses” by Shenandoah

“Two Dozen Roses” is a country song by Shenandoah, released in 1989 as part of their album The Road Not Taken. The song was written by Mac McAnally and Robert Byrne and became one of Shenandoah’s most iconic hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The lyrics tell the story of a man who regrets losing his lover and wonders if grand gestures, like bringing two dozen roses and an old bottle of wine, could win her back. The song captures the themes of remorse and longing, with the protagonist reflecting on his past mistakes and yearning for a second chance. The emotional depth and relatable narrative have made it a timeless favorite in the country music genre.

13. “Grow For Me” from Little Shop of Horrors

“Grow For Me” is a song from the musical Little Shop of Horrors, written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman. The song is performed by the character Seymour Krelborn, who is struggling to care for a mysterious plant he names Audrey II. In the song, Seymour expresses his frustration and desperation as he tries to get the plant to thrive. The song serves as a pivotal moment in the story, introducing the plant’s voracious appetite for human blood, which becomes a central plot point. The lyrics are both humorous and dark, reflecting Seymour’s growing attachment to the plant and foreshadowing the chaos that Audrey II will eventually unleash.

14. “Leaves That Are Green” by Simon & Garfunkel

“Leaves That Are Green” is a song by Simon & Garfunkel from their 1966 album Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme. Written by Paul Simon, the song uses the changing seasons as a metaphor for the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The lyrics reflect on the fleeting nature of life, with lines like “And the leaves that are green turn to brown / And they wither with the wind / And they crumble in your hand.” The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics capture the bittersweet realization that nothing remains the same forever. It is a poignant reflection on aging and the transient beauty of life, making it a fitting addition to a playlist centered around the theme of plants and nature.

15. “Let It Grow” by Eric Clapton

“Let It Grow” is a song by Eric Clapton from his 1974 album 461 Ocean Boulevard. The song is a poetic exploration of love and personal growth, using the metaphor of planting and nurturing love to symbolize the care and patience required for it to flourish. The lyrics open with Clapton standing at a crossroads, a metaphor for life’s many decisions and uncertainties. He suggests that the answer to these dilemmas lies in nurturing love, symbolized by the repeated phrase “plant your love and let it grow”.

The chorus reinforces this idea with the lines “Let it grow, let it blossom, let it flow / In the sun, the rain, the snow,” representing the different phases and challenges of life. By encouraging love to grow through all conditions, Clapton emphasizes its resilience and beauty. The song’s gentle, melodic delivery enhances its soothing and reflective nature, making it a comforting anthem for anyone navigating the complexities of life and relationships.

16. “Plant a Tree” by Bob Brown

“Plant a Tree” is a song by Bob Brown, released in 2022 as part of his album Plant a Tree. The song is an acoustic track that promotes environmental awareness and the importance of contributing to nature. The lyrics encourage listeners to plant trees, highlighting how a small seed or sapling can grow into a giant tree that provides a home for birds and animals. The repetitive chorus, “Plant a tree, plant a tree, contribute to the greenery,” emphasizes the song’s message of environmental stewardship.

The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics and acoustic melody make it an uplifting call to action for listeners to engage in eco-friendly practices and appreciate the natural world. It serves as a reminder of the positive impact that individual actions can have on the environment.

17. “White Roses” by Flyte and The Staves

“White Roses” is a collaboration between British folk-pop band Flyte and indie-folk trio The Staves, released in 2019 as part of Flyte’s White Roses EP. The song is a poignant exploration of loss and legacy, drawing inspiration from W. H. Auden’s poem “Funeral Blues” and the film The Truman Show. The lyrics juxtapose mournful, contemplative themes with tranquil acoustic guitar strums and gentle hand percussion.

The song’s central symbol, white roses, represents new beginnings and the enduring nature of memories. The lyrics, “But those white roses are growing ’round the houses that you buried under the arches all your life,” reflect on the persistence of life and love even in the face of loss. The collaboration with The Staves adds a layer of vocal harmony that enhances the song’s emotional depth and beauty. “White Roses” is a touching and introspective track that resonates with listeners through its delicate balance of sorrow and hope.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.