My love for houseplants began long before I ever owned one.

Growing up in Ecuador, I watched my abuelita Carli care for her plants with so much love. She’d gently remove dying leaves, talk to them, and water each one with intention. Her plants brought her joy, and watching her care for them planted a seed in me.

In 2001, my family moved to Charlotte — the place I still call home. Years later, in 2017, I moved to Spain to pursue my master’s in marketing. That’s when my own plant journey truly began.

Wanting to have a piece of home with me, when I moved abroad I began collecting houseplants. They reminded me of my abuelita and the comfort of her green-filled home. Unfortunately, I wasn’t born with a green thumb and needed a bit of help. I struggled to care for my plants and even had a few plant casualties along the way. Luckily, my abuelita was there to help me learn how to care for my plants.

One year later, I returned to Charlotte. I realized I wasn’t meant for the corporate world. It has always been my dream to own a business and give back to my community. When considering what brings me joy, and what I could help others find joy in, plants were the first thing to come to mind.

In 2019, I launched Verde Tribe to share the joy and confidence I had found through houseplant care. I dove into learning everything I could — from the wellness benefits of plants to proper lighting, soil, and placement. At one point, I was caring for over 130 plants, and each one taught me something valuable.

To deepen my knowledge and better support my clients, I later completed the Indoor Plants: Care & Maintenance program through UCLA Extension — combining hands-on experience with formal training.

Bringing greenery into people’s homes has become my passion. I help plant beginners overcome the fear of failure and feel confident caring for their plants. I’m proud to share the knowledge I learned from my abuelita — and from the 130+ plants I once cared for in my own home.

My expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, personal study, and formal training — including the Indoor Plants: Care & Maintenance program through UCLA Extension.

Today, through Verde Tribe, I offer in-person house calls, virtual consultations, and workshops that make plant care simple, approachable, and fun. Whether it’s figuring out the right light, choosing the perfect pot, or solving a plant mystery, I’m here to help.

Because plant care isn’t just about plants — it’s about you. For me, it’s become a wellness ritual that keeps me grounded and mindful. I truly believe plant care is self-care.