# Sculptural Tree-Growing Vases Ilex Studio’s Glass Vases Show Off the Seeds and Roots of a Plant By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2019-09-25 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glass-vases References: [design-milk](https://design-milk.com/ilex-studios-glass-vases-let-you-grown-your-own-trees/) & [ilexstudio](https://ilexstudio.com/products/avocado-vase) Concealed by soil or hidden from view by a plant pot, the [roots of a plant](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roots-collection-1) are rarely appreciated for their beauty and functional benefits—but Ilex Studio’s [sculptural glass vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/black-hole-vase) prominently display the intricate root systems of a plant. The Avocado Vase and the Acorn Vase by the London-based studio boast unusual forms that are entirely transparent and minimalist, with one component to cradle a seed and another larger part to hold water and roots. While many people are passionate about propping up a seed with a toothpick and adding it to a cup of water to allow its roots to flourish, these glass vases offer an elegant take on this practice for [growing plants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/izestee). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.5/10 - Popularity: 74% | Activity: 81% | Freshness: 9% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Transparent Plant Vases:** Opportunity for innovation in showcasing plant roots and enhancing the visual appeal of growing plants. - **Minimalist Vase Designs:** Disruptive potential in creating simple yet visually striking vases for displaying plants. - **Functional Plant Pot Alternatives:** Opportunity for reimagining traditional plant pots with innovative designs that prioritize aesthetics and the visibility of plant roots. ### Where This Applies - **Home Decor:** Innovative vases can cater to consumers seeking unique and artistic pieces for their homes. - **Gardening and Horticulture:** Disruptive designs can attract gardening enthusiasts looking for new ways to display their plants. - **Interior Design:** Innovative plant vases can be incorporated into interior design concepts, adding a natural and visually appealing element to spaces. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Greenery-Inspired Textured Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leaf-textured-ceramic-vase.md) - [Mouth-Blown Glass Hydro Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hydro-glass-vase.md) - [Delicate Colorful Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/delicate-colorful-vase.md) - [Nature-Inspired Colorful Glass Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/anemona.md) - [Sculptural Glass Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/navazi.md) - [Floating Stem Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lotus-effect-vase.md) - [Chandelier-Shaped Self-Watering Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selfwatering-vase.md) - [Modern Totem-Like Vases](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/totemlike-vases.md) - [Experimental Pottery Vessels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gourd-project.md)