London’s Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is battling winter blues with a vibrant explosion of orchids for its 30th annual Orchid Festival, running now through March 2026. This year’s theme celebrates China’s rich biodiversity as the Lunar New Year transitions from the Year of the Snake to the Horse 🐍➡️🐎.
Step into the Princess of Wales Conservatory, where over 1,710 orchid species native to China—like the showstopping Cymbidium and Phalaenopsis—create a kaleidoscope of colors. Floral installations featuring dragons, koi carp, and pandas add a playful cultural twist 🐼🌺.
"Orchids are like Marmite—they either love you or hate you!" laughs Kew horticulturist Aidan Pike. His pro tip? "Know your home environment before adopting one." Many blooms were shipped from the Netherlands, but China’s ecological diversity—home to 10% of Earth’s species—steals the spotlight 🌏✨.
With 30,000+ orchid species globally, experts emphasize their ecological fragility. "They’re among the first endangered plants due to specific habitat needs," notes conservatory manager Solène Dequiret. The festival runs until March, offering a tropical escape from London’s chill ❄️➡️🌴.
