MSU Conservatory ... seriously picture heavy!

[Paul]

Actually took these pictures back in September. It is the same location that had the bonsai I posted back in October. I was going to post these other pics from the Conservatory then, but decided to hold off until later when a break from the winter doldrums might be needed. I have decided that "later" is "now" Hope ya'll enjoy them







The grounds:















This is my dad (he's about 5'10" or 178 cm tall) standing next to a Colocasia whose leaves I found to be quite impressively large.







These were even larger







The arid house







I had never seen a cork oak before so found this rather cool







and while I have seen 'bottle ponytails' in stores, I've only seen them as little plants in 6" pots -- never as a mature plant a good 3' (about 1 m) in diameter







Nor had even heard of climbing aloes -- here's one climbing up a cactus







Now the tropical house:































This one I really thought was a beauty!

[RosieC]

Great pics... really does seem to bring back the summer. I went to Kew Gardens in early spring last year and your pictures make me think I will go back again this year... but maybe in the summer this time.

[slipperfreak]

Great photos! Looks like a beautiful place.

Rosie, it is one of my biggest dreams to visit Kew. I stopped in London once a few years back on my way to Spain, and I remember seeing a sign on my way to the hotel that mentioned Kew. I didn't have time to go though... some day!

[trdyl]

Loved the pics.

[DebsC]

Great pictures of an awesome place! I enjoyed them, especially since we have a another snow front moving in today. I need Spring time!!!

[Lagoon]

I really enjoyed those photo's - so gorgeous!!
Thank you, Paul

[Tindomul]

Wow, nice place, nice pics. That Fuschia is a must see!!
The Clerodendron is nice too. I have in my house the same species, but the showy flower bracts are bit different. I found it likes it really really wet!

[Paul]

Originally Posted by Tindomul

The Clerodendron is nice too. I have in my house the same species, but the showy flower bracts are bit different. I found it likes it really really wet!

I like yours with the white bracts, Tindo! Where did you find yours? How well does it tolerate dry winter air? Though I really do not have room for one, I'd be sorely tempted to try one ... especially if I could find seeds. They really are an eye popping red.

[Tindomul]

I actually got mine from the New York Botanical Gardens, they had it for sale in the shop. As long as I keep the pot soaking wet, I keep the saucer full of water, the plant seems ok. The second picture was actually a second bloom for me. However it does like to climb a lot! It didn't keep that compact shape from the first picture. But then again, I never trimmed it.