Kew gardens london palmhouse

The Palm House at Kew Gardens in London is an iconic Victorian greenhouse housing a vast collection of tropical palms.

About this subject

The Palm House is one of the most iconic structures in Kew Gardens, located in southwest London. Built between 1844 and 1848, it was designed by architect Decimus Burton and engineer Richard Turner, combining wrought iron and glass in a curved shape reminiscent of an inverted ship's hull. The greenhouse is 110 meters long and 20 meters high, and was a marvel of Victorian engineering, allowing tropical plants to be cultivated in England's cold climate.

The Palm House collection includes over 200 species of palms, many of which are rare or endangered in their natural habitats. Among them are the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) and the Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis). The greenhouse also houses plants such as banana trees, coffee, and sugarcane, representing humid tropical forest ecosystems. The internal environment is maintained with high humidity and temperature, simulating tropical conditions.

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2003, and the Palm House plays a crucial role in botanical conservation and scientific research. During World War II, the Palm House was damaged by bombs but was later restored. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of British botanical history. The building has also inspired other greenhouses around the world, such as the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers and the Hamburg Palm House.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the height and length of the Palm House?

The Palm House is 110 meters long and 20 meters high.

How many species of palms are in the Palm House collection?

The collection includes over 200 species of palms.

Was the Palm House damaged during World War II?

Yes, it was damaged by bombs but was later restored.