We continue our feature on Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam with the second of their three greenhouse attractions - the Palm Greenhouse.
The building itself looks new so we were surprised to find out that it was built in 1912, making it just over a hundred years old. But it was renovated, and perhaps also restored in 2011 which probably explains why it is looking in very good condition.
As you step in immediately you notice the large specimens...and that they are in pots rather than planted in situ. This is because most of the potted specimens are wheeled out in the garden during the summer and only kept in there during the winter.
The Philodendron bipinnatifidum however is planted in situ and is looking impressive...
Loving the backdrop of large Philodendron aerial roots, cool!
Great looking specimen
Now let's explore the palm house further (which, like the rest of the botanical garden is not very big)...Variegated? Nope, their centrepiece palm is not in a good state.
These are looking mighty fine though!
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos horridus
Poorly looking Dasylirion
Any idea what this palm is? I didn't look but assumed it is a Washingtonia. Not sure now
Much better
There was a little elevated walkway too, and views up there weren't too bad
Oh dear, mealy bug infested Macrozamia
Natural predators to the rescue?
That ill looking palm again
Much better with a lovely looking Chamaerops humilis
I wonder what they do in this space during the summer when most of the potted plants are sunning themselves outside? I do know though that they hire this space for private events.
Mark :-)