CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — I’m thrilled to introduce a new regular column that will surely connect with both seasoned gardeners and those simply curious about the world of plants. In the latest installment of Orr-ticulture—written by Illini Media Group’s Brock Orr—garden enthusiasts will find something truly unique. In his second column, titled Demogorgeous: A Botanical Investigation, Brock brings us into the fascinating world of flowers that somehow remind him of the otherworldly Demogorgon from Stranger Things—and as ridiculous as it sounds, it’s pure plant nerd gold.

Brock’s style has a charm that will appeal to anyone who has ever been fascinated by the strange and quirky world of botany. For those who get excited over the intricate patterns of leaves, or even the peculiar ways in which plants survive, Orr-ticulture offers an authentic, relatable, and often humorously absurd way to dive deeper into plant identification, history, and curious comparisons.

Brock has this rare gift of weaving fun narratives with scientific accuracy—he can keep you engaged while providing facts that may surprise even the most knowledgeable garden aficionados. And while this column may wander from Demogorgons to bizarre orchids to the world of Rafflesia flowers (yes, the world’s largest flower), it always brings you back to something that will make you look at the plants in your own garden in a whole new light.

If you’re someone who enjoys the sort of unorthodox garden talk that doesn’t just stick to what you “should” plant, but instead invites you to think creatively about why certain plants look, feel, and behave the way they do, then this column is for you. You’ll get a taste of scientific exploration through a fun and relaxed lens, whether you’re a seasoned horticulturalist or a casual observer who just loves to see nature in all its weird and wonderful glory.

So, if you’ve ever wanted a column that mixes gardening with a little quirky humor and plant-filled curiosity, I encourage you to dig into Brock’s latest contribution. This column is not just for the experts, but for everyone who appreciates plants in all their strange beauty.

As always, we love hearing your thoughts. Drop us an email at ehess@chambanatoday.com, and let us know which plants you think have a Demogorgon vibe, or what quirky gardening topic you’d like Brock to explore next.

— Elizabeth Hess
Editor-in-Chief, Chambana Today