I think most of us are running after developed technology and our hobby also changes with time. Now very few people are interested in gardening as a hobby.. So seeing old trees and plants in the city gives relief.
By the way, how old the plant is you showed in the second picture?
!PIZZA
You said it right, people are more into making money than embracing nature. I hope things will change but there is no sight of it.
I'm not sure, maybe 50 or more.