Perennial Beauty Through Nature's Eyes
In a world through nature’s eyes, it is the old growth forests, the strong-willed stands of woody shrubs, and the overgrown dense jungles that symbolize beauty. For they have #perennialbeauty. A beauty that doesn’t brag about its youth but rather wears its age and resilience proudly.
Perennial = Long, lasting. Seemingly infinite. Enduring.
Perennial Plants = Plants that last more than three years.
Perennial vs annual plants
In plant world, the term perennial refers to any plant that lasts three years or more. You may be thinking, wait, isn’t this most plants? But the reality is that the large majority of our food crops are annual plants.
Annual Plants = All parts of the plant, except for surviving seeds, die off each year.
While many of these annuals are super yum and nutritious (we see you basil, tomatoes, and potatoes), it is the perennial plants that have long lasting benefits for our gardens, our farmlands, our forests, and really our planet as a whole.
Environmental Benefits Of Perennials
⫸ More efficient at capturing and storing nutrients
⫸ More efficient at capturing and storing water
⫸ Deep, long roots that can tap into deep-soil water reserves in times of drought
⫸ Prevent soil erosion from wind or heavy rainfall
⫸ Less work for farmers and gardeners because they do not need to be replanted each year
⫸ Block weeds from growing
⫸ Create shade
⫸ Significantly reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides
⫸ Create habitat for diverse ecosystems
⫸ Staggered floral blooms for longer lasting beauty in the farm or garden
So where are these perennials?!
There are perennials in the wild. Think of all the trees in your nearby forests, the shrubs used in landscaping, and the fruit trees in your yard.
And there are perennial crops found in a plethora of farming systems. From large-scale monocultures (think tree orchards) to other agroecological systems that are promising in the face of climate change. For example, systems combining mitigation with food production such as agroforestry and its relatives (silvopasture, permaculture and low-impact organic systems) generally greatly benefit the environment. Read more about the future of farming here.
Nature shows its love for perennials by giving them the upper hand. The perennials often shade out other weeds and annuals, not giving them the light of day to survive. Less competition from weeds, plus their incredible resourcefulness means perennials thrive. They help mother earth out and mother earth helps them out.
Drink from the Fountain of Perennial Beauty
You are what you eat, right? Eat perennials, and gain perennial beauty. Eat perennial plants in your diet, with edible trees and shrubs. But also remember to opt for perennial plant based skincare.
Why you want perennial beauty
⫸ Resilient - The perennials withstand season after season: tolerating blizzard or cyclone or monsoon or even drought.
⫸ Low Maintenance - They don’t ask for much in terms of maintenance. They take care of themselves by self-propagating.
⫸ Resourceful - They are resourceful and have access to water from deep within the earth.
⫸ Compassionate - Perennials show compassion and hospitality by providing habitat for wildlife.
⫸ Protective - Perennials are protective of their roots by ensuring the soil structure remains intact despite wind or rain.
⫸ Wise - Their wisdom is evident in their twisted trunks, or copious amount of leaves, or advanced root systems.
Skincare with perennial plants
One sip from the fountain of perennial beauty to soak up the regenerative energy of these plants. To take a sip, generously apply skincare made from trees and other perennials. Here is a list of some of our favorite perennials for skincare.
⫸ Annatto - Our namesake! This vibrant tree ingredient adds sun protective properties to our Ocean Friendly Sunblock, and our SPF Mineral Concealer.
⫸ Jojoba - This desert shrub provides us with the most effective base oil for our Arborescent Serum and Regenerative Elixir. Jojoba is deeply hydrating without leaving a greasy feel, and it adapts to your skin type.
⫸ Moringa - This “miracle tree” is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It keeps your skin looking youthful by stimulating collagen production. Find it in our Arborescent Serum.
⫸ Kelp = Yes, this seaweed is a perennial plant! It soothes acne, hydrates dry skin, and calms sensitive skin. Apply it with our Kelp Forest Face Mask & Polish.
⫸ Tamanu = This tropical plant has powerful anti inflammatory properties. Experience its alleviating nature in our Baume Réparateur.
⫸ Baobab = This “upside down” tree softens and restructures skin to soothe irritation and dryness. Find it in our Tree Balm and Woodlands pour homme Oil.
How to incorporate more perennials into your life:
⫸ Understand regenerative agriculture's role in advocating perennial plants.
⫸ Plant and grow perennials! They are low maintenance and long lasting. Here are some recommendations.
⫸ Focus your diet on perennial plants. We have a free seasonal cookbook.
⫸ Lather your skin and indulge your sense's with Anato's skincare made from trees - a sure way to achieve perennial beauty.