I’m Cristie, the creator of Xylem Rising. I started Xylem Rising because I wanted a place to share my passion and knowledge in plants. I’ve found things that work, I’ve tried things that don’t work, and I love sharing all my experience-based plant care tips and recommendations with the world.

Not only am I a self-proclaimed plant nerd, but I also have a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant and Soil Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, class of 2011. I’m the Office Manager at Bamboo Sourcery, a bamboo-specific plant nursery and landscape design business in Sebastopol, CA. I live in Sonoma County, Northern California, in a redwood forest along the Russian River, just under 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean coastline.

Xylem Rising also has an Etsy Shop!

I make Beautiful, Functional Home Decor for Plant Lovers!

In addition to my plant passion, I am a dedicated Lightworker.  Check out my wellness channel on YouTube, AquariCris!

I also run Botanichic, a secondhand fashion boutique on Poshmark.

My other hobbies include Eastern and New Age spirituality and meditation, health and nutrition, integrative medicine, cooking, and fine art. I have two black cats, Siyah and Onyx, the little loves of my life.

Thanks for visiting, and I hope you learn something new!
And as always, I am available for any plant questions, ID requests, issues, or troubleshooting. Never hesitate to contact me – I will respond within 24 hours.

~CRK.
(Cristie R. Kiley)