National Orchid Garden: A Must-Visit for Orchid Lovers
National Orchid Garden – The National Orchid Garden in Singapore is a breathtaking destination that showcases an extensive collection of orchids, beautifully curated and displayed for visitors. This iconic garden, part of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, has a rich history of orchid breeding dating back to 1928, and today, it offers a truly immersive experience for all who appreciate these stunning blooms.
Opening Hours
The National Orchid Garden is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last admission at 6:00 PM.
Admission Fees
The admission fees are affordable, with various rates for different visitor categories:
- Adults: $5 to $15
- Seniors (60+ years): $1 to $3
- Students: $1 to $3
- Children under 12: Free
To enjoy the concession rates, visitors must present a valid ID at the ticket counter. This includes all Singaporean citizens, permanent residents, and those with work or dependent passes, as well as students enrolled in local educational institutions with a valid student pass.
Parking and Accessibility
For those driving, parking is most convenient at the Tyersall Entrance, with additional parking available at the Nassim Entrance (via Evans/Cluny Road) and the Tanglin Entrance (via Holland/Cluny Road).
A Historical Connection to Orchids
Orchids have been integral to the Gardens since its founding in 1859, with the orchid breeding program starting in 1928. Today, the National Orchid Garden displays around 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, showcasing the meticulous work of the horticulture team in enhancing the finest qualities of each hybrid orchid.
Highlights of the National Orchid Garden
Montane Tropical Orchidetum
The Montane Tropical Orchidetum offers a unique experience, simulating the journey through a tropical montane forest. Here, visitors can admire a wide variety of orchids and other tropical plants like bromeliads, gingers, and tropical rhododendrons. The Orchidetum’s display area has expanded to nearly three times its original size, making it a must-see attraction within the garden.
Sembcorp Cool House
The Sembcorp Cool House provides a cool and refreshing environment, designed to replicate the high-altitude montane forests found at elevations between 1,000 to 2,000 meters. With temperatures ranging from 16 to 23 degrees Celsius, this area houses orchids from five biogeographical regions: Malesia, Australasia, Afrotropics, Neotropics, and Southeast Asia. Here, visitors can encounter rare orchid species such as Cymbidiums (boat orchids), Dendrochilums (chain orchids), Cyrtochilums, and Phragmipediums (slipper orchids). The Cool House also contributes to vital research in orchid taxonomy and floristry, allowing scientists to cultivate and study rare species.
Expanded Cool House Orchid Collection
The orchid collection in the Sembcorp Cool House has grown from 350 to nearly 1,000 species and hybrids, with new additions from other plant families, such as begonias and carnivorous plants. The stunning collages of these plants create a fascinating, multi-sensory experience for visitors.
Yuen Peng McNeice Bromeliad Collection
This collection is designed to mimic a Neotropical mid-elevation forest, showcasing a wide variety of bromeliads, orchids, and other plants from the Neotropics. With a display area of 620 square meters, the collection features species and hybrids from genera like Ananas, Guzmania, Neoregelia, Tillandsia, and Aechmea. Neotropical orchids like Oncidium, Cattleya, and Epidendrum can also be admired in this vibrant exhibit.
Tan Hoon Siang Mist House
The Tan Hoon Siang Mist House has expanded its display area from 350 to 760 square meters, offering visitors a larger space to explore rare and award-winning orchid species and hybrids. This area simulates a paleotropical garden and features specialty orchids from the garden’s breeding program, including Dendrobiums, Vandaceous hybrids, and Phalaenopsis. Endangered Lady’s Slipper orchids (Paphiopedilum) are also displayed here, making it a haven for orchid enthusiasts.
Named after Tan Hoon Siang, a prominent businessman and orchid lover, the Mist House showcases his passion for orchids. One of his creations, Papilionanda Tan Chay Yan (previously known as Vanda Tan Chay Yan), earned the First Class Certificate at the 1954 Chelsea Flower Show.
Conclusion
The National Orchid Garden is a true gem, offering visitors a chance to explore the beauty and diversity of orchids in an expertly curated setting. Whether you’re a seasoned orchid enthusiast or a casual visitor, the garden’s collection of over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the Montane Tropical Orchidetum, experience the Cool House, and admire the unique collections on display. A visit to the National Orchid Garden is a must for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and botanical heritage of Singapore.
