Only a handful of people have visited Jonathan Yang’s Grow Room, and he wants to keep it that way. For those unfamiliar, this is a sprawling warehouse where he maintains a collection of more than 1,000 species of plants he’s collected over the past decade.
Aroids dominate most of his plants, including some that are Amazonian size, and he nurtures all of them. From meticulous temperature control to spreadsheets indicating each plant’s lineage, precise attention to detail is crucial.
Yang, who owns The Daily Cut salad chain and Mexican diner Muchachos, also posts stunning photos of his foliage on Instagram (@jonnodotsg).
What sparked your passion for plants?
I got into plants a little over a decade ago. I have always found vegetables beautiful and was fascinated with growing produce myself. Could I get them to look as good as those in the supermarket?
Do you have a favourite?
I collect a wide variety of plants, and most are aroids. Our tropical climate is ideal for these plants, which are primarily found in rainforests.
The Anthurium veitchii is everything I want in a plant. In addition to its ability to grow to over 1.8m, it also looks otherworldly and beautiful. I don’t have a single most-prized plant. Most of those I cherish are gifts from friends.
How do you decide what to add to your collection?
Generally, I do not seek out specific plants. I’m partial to unusual and/or bizarre-looking species. Whenever the opportunity arises, I approach my hobby organically, picking up specimens I find beautiful or unique. Happenstance is an enjoyable feeling for me.
How do you juggle caring for your plants and running your businesses?
I don’t have a vibrant social life, so my evenings and weekends are spent on my plants. My businesses come first and I’m fortunate to have capable colleagues to help run them. It gives me the luxury of pursuing my interests without having to worry about anything.
What advice would you give others hoping to start a collection?
Don’t do it for attention, status, or profit; do it for the love of plants.
Photography Mun Kong
Photography assistant Melvin Leong
Art direction Ed Harland
