For the first time in Singapore, experience the lush blooms of more than 80 varieties of rhododendrons, which have been brought in for the inaugural Rhododendron Radiance floral display.
Rhododendrons are flowering bushes well-loved by gardeners around the world for their showy flowers that bloom in clusters from red and pink, to yellow and white. Some of the varieties of rhododendrons to look out for include: Rhododendron "Meadow Lemon", whose red-hued buds eventually become pale yellow flowers....
Rhododendron "Mount Loma Prieta" has pink flowers with apricot-yellow centres...
Rhododendron "Sierra Sunset" has bold blooms that combine orange, yellow and cream tones...
The smallest Rhododendron species - Rhododendron lapponicum and Rhododendron drumonium, range between 10-100 cm, while the tallest is reported to be over 30 metres in height! Rhodeodendrum arboretum, also known as Tree Rhododendron, discovered on Mt Japfu in India, holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest Rhododendron at 32.91 metres at the point of its discovery, and it's still growing!
The floral display also features more than 10 varieties of azaleas, a close cousin of the rhododendron. These rhododendrons and azaleas were brought in from New Zealand. Due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand’s four seasons run counter to countries in the Northern Hemisphere, such as those in Europe and East Asia, as well as North America. Spring in New Zealand begins in September, which is when the rhododendrons in the country’s renowned parks and gardens bloom.
Azaleas usually have hairy leaves that are smaller and thinner, while Rhododendrons bloom in larger clusters...
See Gardens by the Bay’s bear mascots enjoying outdoor activities amidst the masses of brightly-coloured flowers with the eight bears trying their paws at camping, fishing, zip-lining and even hot air ballooning - activities reminiscent of the outdoor life in the national parks of New Zealand.
Flowering blooms alongside adorable bear mascots...
Bear mascots indulging in adventures reminiscent of the outdoor activities in national parks in New Zealand...
Rhododendron Radiance will run from today until 28 October 2019. For more details, visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/rhododendron.
