For a break from winter weather, head inside the New York Botanical Gardens, where it feels like spring with thousands of orchids on display. Singapore was not only the location for the hit film “Crazy Rich Asians” but it has also taken centerstage at this year’s New York Botanical Gardens Show. Singapore-where the national flower is the orchid-is the inspiration for the 17th annual Orchid Show on through Sunday, April 28th. Developed in partnership with Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens, the exhibition pays homage to the sites’ iconic Supertrees-dramatic vertical habitats, and famed Arches-a highlight of the National Orchid Garden. In the landmark Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, thousands of colorful orchids in every shape and size surround you-reaching up towering structures and clinging to overhead arches-creating a horticultural spectacle not to be missed.
“The Orchid Show: Singapore” also features a special orchid named for rapper actress and native New Yorker Awkwafina, who starred in “Crazy Rich Asians”. Known as “Vanda Awkwafina,” the orchid is a Vanda hybrid which is Singapore’s national flower and is also known as the rainbow flower since it is one of the few orchids that flower in all colors of the rainbow, including purple, blue, orange, red, yellow and apricot, with many different patterns. This orchid was chosen because it was thought to reflect Awkwafina’s larger than life personality.
NYBG has been cultivating orchids since it’s founding in 1891; they’re cared for within the onsite Nolan Greenhouses. The oldest living orchid in the collection dates back to 1902. Overall the orchid show is an exploration and celebration of all things orchid; one of the rarest, most exotic and most beautiful plants in the world.
Orchid Evenings:
The Orchid Show is open late select Fridays and Saturdays. The installation is a stunning illuminated display of lights after dark. Visitors can purchase beer, wine cocktails and of course a Singapore Sling.
NYBG, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx NY