Palm house botanical kew

The Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is an iconic Victorian glasshouse housing one of the world's most important collections of palms and tropical plants.

About this subject

The Palm House is one of the most iconic buildings at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in London. Designed by architect Decimus Burton and engineer Richard Turner, it was built between 1844 and 1848 and opened in 1848. The structure is a remarkable example of Victorian cast-iron and glass architecture, influenced by 19th-century greenhouses. At 109 meters long, 30 meters wide, and 20 meters high at the central point, the Palm House was designed to house tropical and subtropical species brought by British explorers from across the empire.

The interior is divided into different climatic zones, including a section for palms that can reach 15 meters in height, and areas for plants from the Amazon rainforest, Asia, and Africa. The collection includes rare species such as the sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) and the fan palm (Licuala grandis). The Palm House also served as a setting for important botanical studies, such as those by Joseph Dalton Hooker, who used the plants for research on evolution and biogeography.

Beyond its scientific value, the Palm House is a cultural and architectural symbol. It appears in numerous films and TV shows, and its silhouette is recognized worldwide. In 1987, the greenhouse underwent a major restoration costing over £5 million to repair the ironwork and replace the glass. Today, the Palm House attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually, who can walk along elevated walkways to observe the palm canopies and enjoy panoramic views of the gardens.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Palm House?

The Palm House is 20 meters high at the central point, 109 meters long, and 30 meters wide.

Who designed the Palm House?

The Palm House was designed by architect Decimus Burton and engineer Richard Turner, opening in 1848.

Has the Palm House undergone renovations?

Yes, in 1987 it underwent a major restoration costing over £5 million, repairing the ironwork and replacing the glass.