Phipps Conservatory’s New Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show Provides a Top Winter Escape
For Immediate Release: Mon., Jan. 15
Contact: Julie LaBar | Director of Marketing and Communications
412/622-6915, ext. 3801 ǀ jlabar@phipps.conservatory.org
Phipps Conservatory’s New Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show Provides a Top Winter Escape
Discover a serene getaway from the cold at Pittsburgh’s inspiring, warm tropical oasis.
Pittsburgh, Pa. — Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is transformed with hundreds of stunning orchids and a renowned, ornate collection of tropical bonsai during the Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show, open now through Sun., Feb. 25. Guests are invited to explore the beauty and wonders of tiny miniature orchids, exotic hybrids and one of the finest collections of slipper orchids in the world – in addition to the SUPER. NATURAL. appearance of glass artist Jason Gamrath’s larger-than-life orange sculpted orchids. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the expressive detail of miniature bonsai trees, meticulously trained for years and showcased in this special exhibit.
Guests rank Phipps’ orchids as one of the most interesting parts of their garden experience, and an abundance of vibrant orchid colors, unique varieties and new features are sure to delight in this year’s show. New displays include six giant 5-foot-diameter Phalaenopsis orchid spheres suspended from above, oversized baskets brimming with colorful orchids in multiple rooms of the historic glasshouse and distinctive 6-foot and 9-foot tree frame displays with a mix of breathtaking orchids. In addition, treasured stories about the bonsai in Phipps’ exclusive collection will be presented alongside these time-honored trees.
Upon entering Phipps’ Palm Court, visitors will be surrounded by fragrance as some of the most beautiful, fascinating orchids in the world delight in beds, baskets and other displays. The Serpentine Room comes alive with the variety of miniature tropical bonsai trees on display, showcasing the ancient Japanese art of bonsai amid a lush green backdrop. A rainbow of color engulfs the Sunken Garden filled with fuchsia, lime and peach Phalaenopsis orchids complemented by brightly colored bromeliads. Plus, the signature Orchid Room displays rare, nationally-recognized specimens to enjoy.
Newly surrounded by a tropical paradise, Garden Railroad: Treasure Island provides even more to explore during the show. A display that truly puts the “arr!” in garden, this year’s engaging train exhibit continues to delight guests with a fun treasure hunt, pirate jokes and more. Interactive push buttons set miniature locomotives chugging through an island filled with plants, water features and detailed pirate props that all ages will love.
The 2018 Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show runs Sat., Jan. 13 through Sun., Feb. 25. Conservatory hours are 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily and until 10 p.m. on Fridays. Admission is $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors and students, and $11.95 for children 2 – 18. Members and kids under 2 enter free. Purchase tickets at phipps.conservatory.org.
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About Phipps: Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Pittsburgh, Pa. is a green leader among public gardens with a mission to inspire and educate all with the beauty and importance of plants; to advance sustainability and promote human and environmental well-being through action and research; and to celebrate its historic glasshouse. Phipps commemorates its 125th anniversary in 2018, celebrating its historic past, vibrant present and exciting future ahead — including inspiring seasonal flower shows, community events, public programs and groundbreaking green innovation. Learn more at phipps.conservatory.org.
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Photos © Paul g. Wiegman
