Kew Gardens' Temperate House Reopens

Harry Rosehill
By Harry Rosehill Last edited 70 months ago

Looks like this article is a bit old. Be aware that information may have changed since it was published.

Kew Gardens' Temperate House Reopens
Credit: Gareth Gardener, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

The greatest glasshouse in the world, the Temperate House at Kew Gardens, has reopened. After a five year restoration, involving 400 staff and contractors, the jewel in Kew's crown is back.

The structure houses 10,000 plants — of 1,500 different species — from the world's temperate zones.

Credit: Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

The amount of scaffolding required to carry out such a gargantuan restoration was equivalent to the length of the M25.

Encephalartos woodii, also known as the loneliest tree in the world. Only male specimens exist and the quest for a female has been unsuccessful. Credit Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

The Temperate House first opened in 1863, and is home to some of the world's rarest and most threatened plants.

Credit Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

The Temperate House can count Sir David Attenborough among its fans. In an interview with BBC Radio 3, he said:

(It is) a breath-takingly beautiful space. These plants are wonderful...(and here they are) safe from peril.

Credit: Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Credit: Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew
Credit Gareth Gardener
Even Sir David Attenborough approves. Credit: Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

The Temperate House at Kew Gardens reopens to the public on Saturday 5 May 2018.

Last Updated 04 May 2018