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Stop Staring at a Blank Wall! This Ed Sheeran-Approved Plant Trick Unlocks Creativity

Don't let your workspace feel stagnant. Follow our guide to recreating Ed Sheeran's studio aesthetic and learn about other trees linked to artistic expression.

Ed Sheeran playing an acoustic guitar at a microphone
(Image credit: Kevin Mazur / Getty Images)

There are endless studies out there showing a correlation between plants and a boosted mood. After all spending time outdoors can be a great reset for the nervous system, inviting the natural world into our daily lives.

But how can inviting greenery indoors impact a creative space like Ed Sheeran's recording studio? He's surrounded by an assortment of potted palm trees which bring color and added design elements to the room - but the plant pros I spoke to explained how the power of Ed's plants goes far deeper than just aesthetics.

Ed Sheeran's Studio Greenery

A photo posted by on

Here I share what pros identified Ed's plants as, as well as why they were the perfect pick to welcome inside while he sings. Perhaps you'll feel inspired to grow some of your own!

What plants are in Ed Sheeran's space?

Tall houseplant parlor palm in living room

(Image credit: OKrasyuk / Getty Images)

Ed or Ed's studio designer was clearly favoring small palm trees, as they used a couple of different varieties in the space. It's unclear exactly where Ed was performing but based off of the palms, it's likely a warmer location.

Shane Pliska, CEO of Planterra Interior Landscaping, identified the kentia palm and areca palm, both loved for their beautiful leaves and biophillic qualities.

"In the video I can identify a Kentia palm, and the other plants appear to be Areca palms," said Shane. "Both are good choices for a venue or a performance space as they aren't particulalrly high maintenance.

"Kentia is one of the most graceful palms you can purchase. These are premium plants as they are slow growing and relatively tolerant to interiors. The Areca is more affordable but less tolerant of lower light."

Why are palm trees a great choice for creative spaces?

Lady palm plant on white and pink background

(Image credit: Annandistock / Getty Images)

Shane generally noted how all plants have the ability to uplift a space, known as biophilia: "In general plants uplift and elevate experiences for people. This is called biophilia, which describes the universal human affection toward nature. This is not an acquired taste, like enjoying certain music genres, but an appreciate that is universal, spanning all cultures and generations. It is the universal appeal of nature that makes it so uplifting."

Though when it specifically comes to palm trees, they're a great choice for symbolizing calmness and positivity due to their strong link to tropical locations. Think about it: when your mind wanders off to days lazing on the beach forgetting your woes and worries, you may envision crystal skies, stunning waters and lines of palm trees.

They've become an iconic symbol of relaxation, instantly injecting a positive vibe into their surroundings. Not to mention palm varieties have stunning silhouettes, creating visual interest that's perfect to focus on while trying to get your creative juices flowing.

Some even say that palms are symbolic of resilience and inner strength - qualities that are much needed in the music industry. They are trees with more flexibility than most, so they often bend but do not break.

What other plants would be perfect to include in a creative environment?

Plants of any kind will add to a creative space, bringing grounding energy, gorgeous greenery and something to enjoy nurturing with your own hands. However the below selection of trees have an intrinsic link to fostering creative energy. Whether you'd like them in your yard or home, there are some great picks!

  • Birch: Birch trees are often associated with new beginnings, like a blank canvas.
  • Willow: These trees symbolize magic, healing and inner vision.
  • Bonsai: Bonsai are representative of unity, nature, balance and expression - all often influential in the world of art.
  • Pine: Representative of creativity, longevity and life.

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Ciéra is a writer and regional laureate with particular passions for art, nature, philosophy and poetry. As well as contributing to Gardening Know How, she's an Editorial Assistant for Design Anthology UK and has words in other titles including Homes & GardensLivingetc, and Apartment Therapy. When she's not writing, Ciéra can be found getting incredibly excited when her small but ever-expanding garden shows more signs of growth. She believes it's something very beautiful to be cooking with her own produce, whether it's from her yard or picking berries from the wild to turn into jams or baked goods.