Enjoy an unforgettable moment of beauty as new displays highlight Phipps' astounding array of orchid varieties and classically trained bonsai.

Just a moment of beauty can have a lasting, renewing effect, which is why the perfect remedy to a Pittsburgh winter's chill is a visit to the beautiful gardens of Phipps. You'll be immersed in room after room of ephemeral and entrancing nature in this year’s Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: A Moment of Beauty. All-new engaging displays create a warm oasis featuring a vast variety of orchids and classically trained bonsai. Join us for a respite from the cold and find new ways to appreciate these fascinating specimens as they take center stage.

Exhibit Features

• Marvel at beautiful butterfly sculptures amid vibrant yellow, orange and pink orchids in Palm Court
• Appreciate the ephemeral bloom cycles of flowers in the Sunken Garden as outstanding orchids bloom hot pink, light pink and maroon
• Watch a dazzling water sequence in the Victoria Room pond as yellow orchids shine bright amongst purple, white and blue flora
• Journey through our curated collection of bonsai in the Serpentine Room inspired by Japanese culture
• See a captivating display of Kokedama — the Japanese art of growing plants in a moss-covered ball — featuring orchids, ferns and bonsai
• And much more! 

Plus, guests at A Moment of Beauty can enjoy the delightful displays of Garden Railroad: Movie Magic. Featuring a bustling movie lot full of fascinating features surrounded by a beautiful plant palette, our Garden Railroad is sure to bring Hollywood magic to the glasshouse. 

Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: A Moment of Beauty, designed by Phipps Senior Plant Procurement, Recording and Design Associate Laura Schoch, Horticultural Collections Manager Giovanny Giraldo, Orchid Display Horticulturist Thathmini Kularatna and Display Horticulurist Alex Spiro, runs from Jan. 11 – March 9. Plan your visit today!

Photos © Phil Johnson II and Paul g. Wiegman