During the eighteenth century, those who controlled the country estates of Ireland were keen to alter the appearance of the land. Landscaping was an important lifestyle choice during this period, as estate owners competed to create the most beautiful and exotic gardens. Horticulturists travelled around the world to obtain plants that would flourish in the temperate, humid environment of Ireland. Among these exotic species was an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and purple flowers that appealed to the upper classes.
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