At 1.2 hectares (3 acres) the Flower Dome of Singapore is the world's largest greenhouse conservatory, and is a cool dry climate, similar to the Mediterranean. The temperature in the dome is a pleasant 24 degrees Celsius.
This indoor garden is divided into different sections, each representing the flowers and trees of countries around the world.
California USA
Australia
South America
South Africa
the Mediterranean
Succulents
Baobabs
Changing country displays
During my visit is 2022, a feature garden from Mexico was on display. An 8m x 5m floral arch with over 40,000 flowers welcomed visitors to the Flower Dome. Three chaps from Iztacalco in Mexico City had flown to Singapore to create this marvel. In Mexico, floral arches indicate a festival is occurring. They are placed at the entrances to buildings. The vibrant and vivid colours reminded me of Mexican fiestas. Looking closely, I could see the design of hummingbirds and butterflies in the floral design. This is truly an incredible work of art.
Air plants (tillandseas) have been used as the body of an impressive double headed dragon sculpture.
A step-pyramid has been recreated, and samples of Mexico food - corn, chilli peppers etc, are displayed. Mexican blooms such as marigolds and dahlias are also on show here.
The largest trees in the dome are the African Baobabs, or bottle trees. Weighing just over 30 tonnes, this tree flowers at night. Very handy, as nocturnal fruit bats are attracted to the flowers and pollinate the baobab. Also in the Flower Dome is a transplanted olive tree that is estimated to be over 1000 years old. Successfully finding a new home here, it has even borne fruit!
Walking around, admiring the beauty of nature, brings a sense of relaxation. Peace and tranquility definitely reign supreme here. There is a sense of wonderland and fantasy among the flowers. More so when I spotted a sculpture of a diminutive Alice under a driftwood mushroom creation.
The displays are well signposted with information of botanical, common and family name as well as country of origin.
Sculptures are also found scattered throughout the garden. La Famille de Voyageurs is a sculpture in bronze by artist Bruno Catalano and depicts a family leaving the Singaporean gardens and heading off to the airport. I felt the partially solid family members were departing with fond memories of their visit, but leaving a piece of themselves behind in Singapore, just as I will.
Amazingly created driftwood sculptures are also spotted amongst the flora here. I am in total awe of the brilliance of the designers.
Over 3,300 specially designed glass panels make up the roof, allowing light to enter yet minimizing solar heat. It is a fabulous opportunity to see over 1000 plants from around the world all being cared for and admired under one enormous roof.
An entrance fee is charged. Once inside the dome, visitors can wander at their leisure and own pace. Set aside around two hours to fully enjoy traversing the various displays. Free guided tours are held several times during the day.
Happy Travels!
