The colours of Costa Rica will cheer the winter away
THE CONTRAST between vivid Costa Rica and the drabness of London in February could hardly be more striking.
But the colours of Central America are on their way to Kew Gardens for a festival to celebrate orchids.
From now until March 6, the horticultural centre of excellence is staging an exhibition of some of the world’s most exciting flora and fauna.
A spokesman for Kew said: “Our stunning horticultural displays bring to life the incredible biodiversity of Central America through the culture and colours of a country home to six per cent of the world’s flora and fauna species.
“Transport yourself to the tropics in our route weaving through the Princess of Wales Conservatory and don’t miss our vibrant installations of monkeys, sea turtles and the native quetzal bird – a symbol of Costa Rican forest protection.
“Along the way, discover Ethereal Nature, a series of installations by Costa Rican artist Dino Urpí which explore the balance, beauty and harmony of the natural world and bountifulness of our planet.”
The glasshouse pond is being filled with brilliant oranges and yellows to imitate a rising sun and the national flower Guarianthe skinneri will be on show in its vibrant pink glory.
Costa Rica is acclaimed as a role model for biodiversity conservation – it was recently awarded the inaugural Protect and Restore Nature Earthshot Prize – and a major orchid habitat.
Orchids 2022 showcases the collaboration between local experts and Kew scientists in their mission to understand Costa Rica’s wonderful plant life.
Every Saturday, depending on good weather, the We Are Costa Rica in the UK group will present traditional Costa Rican folk dance performances at 11am and 1pm outside the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Members say they are keen to celebrate their culture.