About Kew Gardens Temperate House
Plants At Kew Gardens Temperate House
The Kaka Beak is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to New Zealand. It is also known as the 'parrot's beak' due to the shape of its flowers, which resemble a parrot's beak. The plant is endangered in the wild, but it has been successfully propagated at Kew Gardens. The Kaka Beak is a member of the legume family, and its bright red flowers are pollinated by birds.
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The Tree Pincushion is a rare and unusual plant from South Africa. It belongs to the Protea family and is known for its striking orange flowers that resemble a pincushion. The Tree Pincushion is a slow-growing plant and can take up to 10 years to reach maturity. It is also highly sensitive to frost and requires a warm, sheltered environment to thrive.
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The Chilean Wine Palm is a majestic and impressive plant that is native to Chile. It is one of the largest palm trees in the world and can grow up to 25 meters tall. The Chilean Wine Palm is named after the sweet sap that can be harvested from its trunk and used to make wine. The plant is highly valued in its native habitat and has been overexploited for its sap and timber, making it endangered in the wild.
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History Of Kew Gardens Temperate House
- It was designed by architect Decimus Burton and built-in 1862 to house plants from temperate climates around the world.
- The greenhouse is 19 meters high and covers an area of 4,880 square meters, and was constructed using wrought iron and glass with an intricate design of arches, columns, and spires.
- The Temperate House quickly became a popular attraction at Kew Gardens, and over the years has undergone several renovations and repairs to maintain its structural integrity and accommodate the changing needs of the plants it houses.
- In 2012, the Temperate House was closed for a five-year restoration project that involved replacing over 15,000 panes of glass, repairing the ironwork and stonework of the building, and installing a new environmental control system.
- The restored Temperate House was reopened to the public in May 2018 and remains one of the most popular attractions at Kew Gardens.
- It houses over 1,500 species of plants from around the world and is considered one of the largest surviving Victorian glasshouses in the world.
- The Temperate House is divided into three sections, each with a different climate zone, and has a spectacular central walkway that offers breathtaking views of the plants from above.
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FAQ's
How big is the Temperate House in Kew Gardens?
The Temperate House in Kew Gardens is one of the largest surviving Victorian glasshouses in the world. It covers an area of 4,880 square meters (52,500 square feet) and is 19 meters (62 feet) high at its tallest point.
Is it important to book Kew Gardens tickets in advance?
Yes, it is generally important to book Kew Gardens tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Kew Gardens, located in London, is one of the world's most famous botanical gardens and a popular tourist attraction. By booking tickets in advance, you can secure your entry to the gardens and avoid potential long queues or disappointment due to limited availability.
What is the history of the Temperate House?
The Temperate House was designed by Sir Decimus Burton and opened in 1863. It was built to house Kew Gardens' growing collection of temperate plants from around the world. Over the years, the greenhouse suffered from decay and neglect, and in 2012, a five-year restoration project was initiated to bring the structure back to its former glory.
How many zones are there in Kew Gardens Temperate House?
There are five climatic zones represented in the Kew Gardens Temperate House: temperate Asia, Australasia, the Americas, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. These zones are defined by the climate of the regions they represent and the plant species that grow there. Each zone features a range of different plant species, from towering trees to delicate flowers, all of which have been carefully selected and curated by Kew Gardens' team of botanists and horticulturists.
What is the role of the Temperate House in conservation and research?
The Temperate House plays an important role in the conservation and research of temperate plant species. It houses a collection of over 1,500 plants from around the world, many of which are rare or endangered. The greenhouse also serves as a research facility, providing scientists with a controlled environment to study plant biology, ecology, and genetics.
Are there any special events or exhibitions held in the Temperate House?
Yes, the Temperate House occasionally hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year. These events may include plant displays, educational programs, and cultural activities. Some recent exhibitions have included "Life in the Dark," which explored the fascinating world of nocturnal plants and animals, and "Orchids," which showcased a stunning collection of orchid species.
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