The Orchid Festival is back at Kew until 2 March 2025, and this year, the botanical gardens are shining the spotlight on Peru.
Peru is home to over 3,000 species of orchid, many of which are found nowhere else on the planet.
Solene Dequiret, supervisor of the Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew, said: “We are thrilled to bring the biodiversity of Peru to this year’s Orchid festival. The festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and escape the winter blues”.
This year’s colourful display focuses on the natural beauty of the South American country with floral installations featuring flamingos, alpacas and a recreation of world-wonder Machu Picchu.
Regular visitor Shelly McOwen said: “I look forward to the Orchid festival every year, and this year it didn’t disappoint. Kew Gardens is one of the most magical places in London.”
Visitors will also be able to see the endangered plant known as the Queen of the Andes (or Puya raimondii). It is native to the Peruvian and Bolivian Andes and can grow up to 50 feet in height.
Past festivals have showcased orchids from Cameroon, Madagsascar and Costa Rica.
Tickets to the Orchid Festival are free with garden entry. Queues are expected, and timeslots can be booked in advance here.
