CLEVELAND — We’re officially in the mist of “false spring” in Northeast Ohio. But if your cabin fever is boiling over, the Cleveland Botanical Garden has a new exhibit that will grow on you.
Back for its 15th year, the popular Orchid Mania has been reimagined as Orchids Forever. The show’s theme highlights the incredible diversity of Orchids and focus on conservation.
“If there are changes that impact the ecosystem. Orchids are often the first to kind of respond,” said Head of Horticulture Caroline Tait.
Guests will be greeted with hundreds of orchids in an experience that leads through a timeline highlighting their long history on earth as well as modern day science and conservation efforts.
Frequently thought of as tropical and exotic, there are many types of orchids that can be found right here in Ohio.
“There’s a little bit of something for everyone. If you want to grow orchids in your home, there’s something for you,” Tait said. "If you want to grow orchids outside in your garden, it’s a little more challenging. But there are orchids to choose from.”
Visitors can reserve tickets for the event online for specific time slot. A socially distanced one-way path guides visitors through the experience.
“It’s beautiful, it’s relaxing. They’re just delightful to look at,” said Jane Sydney of Cleveland Heights. “They’re all different. Every single one is different.”
In total, there are more than 30,000 species of orchids that have been around for more than 112 million years. The popular attraction is always a hit with local guests.
Horticultural displays showcase the plants all surrounded by narrative panels about orchid science. The Glasshouse rainforest also highlights various orchid species from the continents of Africa, Asia, Australia and Central America.
The bursts of color are a welcome sight in a typically drab Ohio winter.
“Many of the orchids, their centers are so intriguing. They’re just so well built,” said Sydney. “The color and the diversity. This exhibit really shows you what’s out there in terms of orchids.
Reservations are required to control capacity for the safety of our members and guests. The experience runs through Sunday April 11. To learn more, click here.
