Experience the light and warmth of summer during Orchid Daze: Beauty and Light, the Garden’s annual tropical plant extravaganza, running from February 8 to April 13.
Sparkling glasshouses serve as the natural terrain for exotic orchids in cultivation, and this year’s exhibition takes full advantage of the abundant natural light in the Fuqua Conservatory and Orchid Center. Through the use of reflective media, the exhibition heightens the scintillating beauty of orchids.
In the east-facing Conservatory Lobby, soft morning light is captured by vertical curtains of crystals in varying sizes and shapes, reflected through alternating layers of jewel-toned miniature orchids. Dendrobium ‘Mini Snowflake’ and Oncidium ‘Twinkles’ form vertical tapestries, creating a dynamic stroll surrounded by carpets of Epidendrum and Oncidiums in a spectrum of colors.
A spiral galaxy of crystals hovers in the vertical space above the corridor linking the Conservatory and Orchid Center. Visitors are guided through this dazzling space by an allée of vibrant blue, orange, pink, and yellow Vanda orchids, leading from the Tropical Rotunda to the entrance of the Orchid Atrium. Here, a soaring bubble cloud of reflective orbs spirals from floor to ceiling, enclosed within a parterre-style formal backdrop. Smaller clouds of pink and white orchids float among the orbs, adding fragrance, color, and a dramatic mirrored setting, perfect for photographs in the warm afternoon light.
In the Orchid Display House behind the Reflection Pond, a crystalline water feature serves as the centerpiece. Water cascades over a faceted mirrored water wall, providing tranquil sound and shimmering light. Radiant yellow, orange, and red orchids cascade across two flanking panels and bloom in the beds below. Inside the cedar pergola, visitors can sit among the vibrant orchid displays and soak in the serene atmosphere.
In conjunction with Orchid Daze, guests are invited to a free Orchid Care Clinic on Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to noon.