The Princess of Wales Conservatory
Wet tropics and cloud forest

The Wet Tropics Zone

This large area is maintained with the high humidity typical of rainforests. The planting also reflects the lighting conditions; low at floor level where species such as the marantas, with their attractively patterned leaves, are flourishing.

There are mangrove swamp and riverine habitats displaying vegetation such as the giant Amazonian waterlily and the water hyacinth, which is renowned for clogging waterways.

There are several economically useful plants originating from the wet tropics, including banana, sugar cane, cassava and pineapple. Also on show are the wild forms of many familiar house plants, such as the Swiss cheese plant, the African violet and begonias.

Plant profile: Giant Waterlilies

In Victorian times, one of Kew's most popular sights was the giant Amazonian waterlily (Victoria species) and nowadays Victoria 'Longwood Hybrid' can be seen in the Princess of Wales Conservatory each year from around March to November. It is still a great attraction and no wonder, with its huge leaves up to 2 m (6 ft 7 ins) in diameter and its enormous and attractive flowers that change colour from white to pink over a period of 24-36 hours.

Around the giant waterlily pond, the waterlogged soil provides perfect growing conditions for mangroves from the coastal swamps of the tropics.

Cloud forest

Even higher humidity, but cool shade, is required for plants from the high mountainous cloud forests which are perpetually shrouded in mists, so a separate enclosed area is specially set aside for them. Cloud forest vegetation is rich in epiphytic plants which perch on tree trunks or branches to reach enough light. They get the water they need from the damp atmosphere and from rainfall.

Continue the tour

Back up to: North Eastern Zone

Carry on to: Carnivorous Plants