Cody Alexander, owner of Urban Jungle, shared his love of orchids, succulents and all things tropical during my visit to the showroom at 2603 Sherman Avenue NW. The former nurse explained his natural tendency to nurture made it easy to transition to opening the business in 2015. That tendency is evident when you enter their self-described premier “botanique” and it carries you into a realm of calm. The beauty and abundance of plants lure you into the space while the staff makes the introductions.

Urban Jungle’s tag line, “We Dig Plants,” is an understatement as they are masters at educating new owners and reassuring frustrated ones. They advise customers on the real secret to plant success - “loving neglect” or leaving them alone for a while.

“Having a green thumb is learned behavior and experience is the best teacher. People should not take it personally if their plant dies,” Cody said.

The staff are ready to help you create your own sense of urban calm.

The staff are friendly, knowledgeable people who create works of art right before your eyes! Simply walk in with an idea and they can assist you getting exactly what you want. Their belief is that most individuals are nurturers and owning plants is a good way to add calm into your life. Caring for plants, watching them flourish and using them to shift the energy in your home or office can often provide health benefits.

You can find their donated arrangements at the NICU at Washington Hospital Center, the Gay Men’s Chorus and as auction items at the City Dogs fundraiser and Studio Theatre gala.

Urban Jungle has wholesale, retail and rental services including floral artistry and custom work. They boast the largest selection of premium quality, exotic, well-tended, unusual and low maintenance plants in the area. Their DIY workshops provide opportunities to build a succulent terrarium or receive a crash course in gaining a green thumb. Customers can visit their store or shop online. Same-day delivery to the Washington, DC metropolitan area is also available.

After purchasing a couple of succulents housed in stunningly beautiful containers, I brought them home determined to make them thrive and create my own sense of calm.

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