Throughout history, man has cultivated certain plants for specific purposes. Some plants, like the apple and the tulip, have found ways to make themselves essential to mankind, thus ensuring widespread propagation.

The symbiotic relationship of plants with human civilization is the focus of the documentary film “The Botany of Desire: A Plant’s-Eye View of the World” to be presented by the Brownwood Area Community Garden this Thursday, June 21, at 7 p.m.

Based on the 2001 book by Michael Pollan, a professor of journalism and a student of food, “The Botany of Desire” film is narrated by actress Frances McDormand and explores the nature of domesticated plants from the dual perspective of humans and the plants themselves.

The film presents the history and significance of four plants: apples for sweetness; tulips for beauty; cannabis for pleasure; and, potatoes for sustenance. Each has a story of discovery and adaptation; each has a symbiotic relationship with human civilization.

“The Botany of Desire” is the fourth in the Community Garden’s ongoing film series at the Central Texas Opportunities offices at 1500 Dublin. Admission is free and light refreshments will be available.

The Brownwood Area Community Garden was established in 2009 primarily for the purpose of providing fresh, naturally grown produce to area food pantries to feed the hungry through the Salvation Army soup kitchen and Good Samaritan Ministries. The Garden also provides space for residents who wish to garden according to natural methods, provides education on sustainable gardening practices, and creates employment and on-the-job training opportunities for low-income workers.

For further information on the Community Garden and the film series, call garden coordinator Daniel Graham, 325-641-9029.