Rare British flora to be showcased at Kew Gardens

In the heart of London, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, will host an exhibition titled 'Rare and Extinct' from October 19-November 17. This unique showcase aims to highlight the work of Kew's horticulturists who care for red-listed plants by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

The exhibition will feature 20 plants that are classified as Extinct in the Wild, Critically Endangered, Endangered, or Vulnerable. Among these, visitors will find the lady's slipper orchid, considered Britain's rarest wildflower, which unfortunately fell victim to 'orchidelirium', a Victorian fever for orchids that led to collectors' deaths on expeditions. Another plant on display is the one-time Cape Town resident Erica verticillata, now extinct in the wild, with pink tubular flowers.

The red angel's trumpet (or Brugmansia sanguinea) will also be shown, a plant used by South American shamans for its psychoactive properties.

Visitors will not only be able to see these rare plants but also learn about their care and conservation. Artefacts from the Herbarium, Economic Botany Collection, and archives will be on display, providing a deeper insight into the world of endangered flora.

Before delving into the world of horticulture, let's take a moment to appreciate the setting. The Pagoda at Kew Gardens, one of the most famous landmarks at Kew Gardens, was designed by Sir William Chambers with the intention of being incongruous.

While the exhibition is a testament to the dedication of Kew's horticulturists, it's worth noting that the gardens themselves have a rich history. Sir Joseph Banks, a naturalist, played a significant role in their creation.

Outside of Kew Gardens, London offers a variety of walks for nature lovers. These include Eltham Palace, Lesnes Abbey, and the 'Cathedral of Sewage', which offers a unique perspective on the city's history and ecology.

Annunciata Elwes, the director of contemporary art gallery TIN MAN ART, lived in Hampshire with her husband, two daughters, and a pug before moving to London. Before her work at TIN MAN ART, Annunciata was the News & Property Editor for our platform and previously worked at The Sunday Times Travel Magazine. An award-winning journalist specializing in art, culture, and property, Annunciata's passion for conservation and the arts is evident in her work.

This exhibition promises to be an enlightening journey through the world of endangered plants, shedding light on the efforts being made to preserve these rare species and raising awareness about their plight. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and learn about the important work being done at Kew Gardens.