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The Gardens
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In the Spring and Summer of 2007, the Century Plant in Longwood's Silver Garden came into Bloom!
Track the growth of this amazing plant (Agave americana).
The flower spike, growing at the incredible rate of 5–6 inches per day, shot through the greenhouse roof and reached heights of 30 to 35 feet.
This amazing plant was transplanted to the Silver Garden in 1997 from a 5-gallon container and thrived for ten years. Legend says the century plant takes one hundred years to bloom. However, century plants in cultivation may bloom much quicker, and Longwood’s living example took full advantage of the ideal conditions the Silver Garden offers.
The century plant uses all of its energy to produce this once-in-a-lifetime bloom. After it finished flowering it died, and Longwood gardeners replaced it with a younger plant.
Displays & Upcoming Events
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Orchid Extravaganza
now through March 25
Explore a magical world of orchids where thousands of colorful blooms drape from walls, flow from baskets, and form captivating archways in artful displays.
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What's in Bloom
A team of Longwood Volunteers gathers horticultural highlights from the Outdoor Gardens and Conservatory. Download a pdf of their top picks for the week, including photos and locations.
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International Orchid Show & Sale
March 23–25
Experience the American Orchid Society-judged show, take a tour, hear a talk, and find the perfect orchid to take home. In collaboration with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Orchid Society.
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Light: Installations by Bruce Munro
Opening June 9
Experience Longwood Gardens in a whole new light through the evocative and imaginative art of Bruce Munro, British lighting artist.
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