Waterlily House
Sightseeing attraction | Richmond | England | United Kingdom
The "Waterlily House" in Richmond, England, is a fascinating attraction located within the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. This small, square greenhouse, built in 1852, is a historic building designed specifically for the cultivation of the giant Amazon water lily - a plant that was celebrated as a natural wonder in the 19th century. Today, the Waterlily House stands as a protected monument, offering visitors a glimpse into a tropical world full of exotic aquatic plants and colorful vegetation, creating an impressive atmosphere year-round.
At the heart of the Waterlily House is a circular pond with a diameter of over ten meters, surrounded by a narrow walkway. In this pond grow the impressive Amazon water lilies, whose leaves can grow up to three meters wide and stand out with their spiny undersides and upturned edges. These gigantic leaves are so robust that they appear as platforms in folk belief, sparking the imagination of many visitors. The flowers of the Victoria amazonica are also remarkable: they initially open white and turn deep pink on the second day before sinking beneath the water's surface after about 48 hours. In addition to these main stars, the greenhouse also houses other exotic aquatic plants such as lotuses, papyrus, and various ferns that line the edges and hang from the ceiling, creating a lush, jungle-like environment.
The Waterlily House is not only a botanical highlight but also a place of cultural and historical significance. In the mid-19th century, a specimen of the Victoria water lily inspired architect Joseph Paxton to design the Crystal Palace for the 1851 World Exhibition - the plant's leaf structure is said to have influenced his innovative glass and steel constructions. In Kew itself, the water lilies are grown from seeds planted in January and hand-pollinated in summer to secure seeds for the next season. The pond water is dyed black with a harmless dye to prevent algae growth and enhance the reflections of the plants and light, intensifying the visual impact.
The atmosphere inside the Waterlily House is warm and humid, reflecting the tropical conditions necessary for the plants to thrive. Visitors enter the greenhouse through a simple door and are immediately enveloped in the heat and scent of the plants. The narrow path around the pond allows for close-up viewing of the vegetation, while the tall glass walls and roof let in ample daylight, making the colors of the flowers and leaves shine. Occasionally, the greenhouse is complemented by temporary exhibitions, such as the spectacular glass installations of artist Dale Chihuly, which combine the natural beauty of the water lilies with artistic sculptures, creating an unforgettable contrast.
The location of the Waterlily House within the Kew Gardens makes it an easily accessible highlight for those exploring the botanical garden. It is located near the Palm House, another famous greenhouse, and seamlessly fits into the sequence of carefully designed climate zones that make Kew so unique. Despite its small size compared to other structures in the garden, the Waterlily House offers an intense and concentrated experience often described as a "wow moment." The huge water lily leaves, delicate flowers, and lush vegetation create a scene that seems out of this world and leaves visitors in awe.
The Waterlily House is more than just a botanical display case - it is a place that combines science, history, and nature. Here, not only is the beauty of tropical plants showcased, but the commitment of Kew Gardens to preserving rare species is also emphasized. The care of the Amazon water lilies and other plants requires precise conditions and years of expertise, underscoring the importance of this place for research and conservation. For visitors, it is a place of tranquility and wonder, offering the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature in a condensed yet intense form.
In summary, the "Waterlily House" in Richmond is an attraction that combines history, botany, and aesthetics in a fascinating way. It tells the story of the discovery and cultivation of exotic plants in the Victorian era and remains a living testament to the botanical passion of Kew Gardens. For anyone visiting the area, it is a must-see stop that delights with its tropical splendor and historical charm - a small yet impressive gem amidst one of the world's most significant botanical gardens.
