Plants & Fungi A - Z

Explore our profiles of plants and fungi.

These illustrated profiles contain a wealth of facts, including details on conservation, uses and habitats – as well as Kew’s connections with the species. They have been chosen to inspire interest in plants, detail our science and conservation work and showcase star plants in the Gardens.

This is a constantly growing resource with new profiles added every week - so do be sure to check back regularly.

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Vaccinium corymbosum (blueberry)

Blueberry is cultivated in North America and Europe for its edible fruits, which have been promoted as an antioxidant-containing ‘superfood’.

More: Food

Vallea stipularis (capuli)

Vallea stipularis is a beautiful, evergreen, South American shrub with masses of pinkish-red or crimson, bell-shaped flowers.

More: Alpines, Ornamentals

Vanda coerulea (blue vanda)

The stunning blue vanda is responsible for the dramatic blues and purples seen in many cultivated vanda orchids.

More: Orchids, Ornamentals

Vanilla planifolia (vanilla)

Vanilla planifolia is the source of vanilla, one of the most popular flavours in the world, and weight for weight, one of the most valuable spice crops.

More: Orchids, Food, Beauty and cosmetics, Medicinal

Verbascum dumulosum (shrubby mullein)

Shrubby mullein is found only among the ruins of the ancient city of Termessus in Antalya, southern Turkey.

More: Alpines, Ornamentals

Viburnum dilatatum (linden viburnum)

Linden viburnum is a large shrub with neat, round leaves and flat heads of small white flowers followed by red, or sometimes yellow, fleshy berries.

More: Medicinal, Ornamentals

Vicia orobus (wood bitter-vetch)

Wood bitter-vetch is an erect herb related to the world-renowned broad bean (Vicia faba), a member of the pea and bean family (Leguminosae).

More: Legume family

Victoria amazonica (giant waterlily)

Queen of the water lilies, this Amazonian giant has a remarkable life cycle.

More: Little and large, Ornamentals

Viola cornuta (horned pansy)

A popular bedding plant with a light fragrance, horned pansy is native to the Pyrenees.

More: Ornamentals, Alpines

Viscum album (mistletoe)

One of the most well-known evergreens, the mistletoe has inspired fascination throughout history, and is held in esteem for its medicinal and perceived magical properties.

More: Traditions and beliefs, Ornamentals, Medicinal