Orchid paradise at Kew

Orchids enjoy a rich and varied symbolism: of fertility, of rare and delicate beauty and of exotic luxury.  The latter came into play during Victorian times when orchids became the valuable trophies of botanical hunts that ventured deep into the tropical interior of the empire.  These intrepid plant hunters provide the inspiration for this year’s Orchid Festival at Kew Gardens.

The festival is an intense and dramatic celebration of these very special flowers. 8,000 specimens are on display: some are direct descendants from plants that were in Kew’s collection over 100 years ago, while a particular hybrid Phalaenopsis orchid – Diamond Sky – is enjoying its world premiere at Kew.

The displays are theatrical, always colourful and often fragrant: cascades of Vanda orchids arch the walkways, Oncidium orchids sprout from floating canoes, pompoms of Phalaenopsis orchids hang from the ceiling of the greenhouse like floral glitter balls while Dendrochilium Glumaceum fills the air with its spicy vanilla perfume.  A charming orchid take on the Victorian auricular theatre helps you to identify your favourites from those on show.

Oxfordshire based event and wedding florist, Jo Wise from Bloom Brigade, has been celebrated for her work with orchids and is inspired by the expertise and variety on display at Kew: “Their delicate, architectural qualities make orchids fabulous wedding flowers…some defy gravity and make your heart race with their complexity or simple grace”.

Orchids: A Plant Hunters’ Paradise is in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew until Sunday, March 9.  Entrance to the Orchid Festival is included in the standard admission price (£14.50 for adults with concessions available).  The gardens are open from 9.30 am to 4.15 pm daily, with last admission at 3.45pm.

Phalaenopsis Diamond Sky is on sale at the Kew Victoria Plaza Shop for the duration of the festival, priced at £25, but supplies are limited so be sure to visit as soon as possible.

Jo Wise’s Bloom Brigade specialises in striking event and wedding floristry.  She can be contacted on 07778 549412 or jo@jowisedesign.co.uk.