Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is a renowned botanical garden located in Kew, in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, England. It is one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world and is a major center for botanical research and education.

History

Kew Gardens was established in 1759 by Princess Augusta, the mother of King George III. Initially, it was a small garden within the grounds of the royal estate at Kew. Over the years, it expanded significantly, particularly under the direction of Sir Joseph Banks, who was a prominent botanist and explorer. Banks played a crucial role in transforming Kew into a leading scientific institution.

Collections

Kew Gardens is home to an extensive collection of living plants, with over 50,000 different species. The gardens also house a vast herbarium, which contains over seven million preserved plant specimens. The collections at Kew are used for scientific research, conservation, and education.

Palm House

One of the most iconic structures at Kew Gardens is the Palm House, a large Victorian glasshouse that was built in the 1840s. It is home to a diverse collection of tropical plants from around the world.

Temperate House

The Temperate House is another significant glasshouse at Kew. It is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world and houses a wide variety of temperate plants.

Princess of Wales Conservatory

The Princess of Wales Conservatory was opened in 1987 and contains ten different climatic zones, each with its own unique collection of plants. It was named in honor of Diana, Princess of Wales.

Research and Conservation

Kew Gardens is a leading center for botanical research and conservation. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew conducts research on plant diversity, conservation, and sustainable use. The gardens also play a crucial role in the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership, which aims to conserve seeds from wild plants around the world.

Education and Public Engagement

Kew Gardens offers a wide range of educational programs for visitors of all ages. These include guided tours, workshops, and lectures on various botanical topics. The gardens also host numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2003, Kew Gardens was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its historical significance and contributions to botanical science.

See Also

• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
• Joseph Banks
• Palm House
• Temperate House
• Princess of Wales Conservatory
• Millennium Seed Bank Partnership