Palm house botanical kew

The Palm House is an iconic Victorian glasshouse at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, housing a vast collection of tropical palms and endangered plants.

About this subject

Built between 1844 and 1848, the Palm House is one of the most remarkable examples of Victorian iron-and-glass architecture. Designed by architect Decimus Burton and engineer Richard Turner, its curved, elongated structure was intended to accommodate tropical palms arriving from South America and Africa. At about 110 meters long and 20 meters high, the glasshouse maintains a controlled climate that replicates the warm, humid conditions of tropical rainforests. Inside, it houses over 200 species of palms, along with plants such as banana trees and coffee. The Palm House also holds historical significance as a site for pioneering botanical research, particularly in acclimatizing exotic plants to the British climate. In 2020, it underwent a major restoration that preserved its original features while upgrading environmental control systems. The glasshouse is a symbol of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Palm House built?

The Palm House was built between 1844 and 1848 during the Victorian era, designed by Decimus Burton and Richard Turner.

How many palm species are inside the Palm House?

The interior houses over 200 species of palms, along with other tropical plants like banana trees and coffee.

Is the Palm House part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, including the Palm House, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003.