Gardens by the Bay has launched a breathtaking new floral display in the Cloud Forest, showcasing over 60 taxa of exquisite orchids from Thailand. The exhibition, titled “Orchids from the Land of Smiles,” celebrates 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Thailand, as well as Singapore’s 60th anniversary (SG60).
Highlights of the Display
The showcase features iconic vandaceous orchids such as Vanda, Rhynchostylis, and Aranda, alongside diverse Dendrobium groups4. Some notable orchids include:
Dendrobium Snowflake ‘Red Star’: A hybrid with fragrant, long-lasting flowers
Paphiopedilum exul: An endemic species from Peninsular Thailand
Rhynchostylis gigantea: Known for its spicy fragrance and distinctive inflorescence
Vanda Somsri Blue Classic: A vibrant purple hybrid
Thai Culture and Landscaping Techniques
The display incorporates Thai landscaping practices, showcasing the orchids’ unique characteristics4. Vandaceous orchids are mounted on tree trunks to exhibit their trailing roots, while dendrobiums create masses of colorful blooms.
Visitors can admire these beautiful orchids against a backdrop of Thai cultural icons, including The Royal Pantheon from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the revered naga serpent, and the majestic yakshas from the Ramakien epic
Collaboration and Significance
This exhibition is a collaboration between Gardens by the Bay and the Royal Thai Embassy of Singapore. It marks the beginning of a year-long celebration of Singapore’s 60 years of diplomatic relations with various countries.
Gardens by the Bay Assistant CEO Ms May Yeo stated, “Singaporeans have a longstanding and warm relationship with Thailand, whose culture has always been a source of fascination. Gardens by the Bay serves as a floral window to the world, and in our first Thai-themed orchid display, we worked with the Royal Embassy of Thailand to weave in many familiar elements of Thai culture that have been intricately recreated by Thai artisans”.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Thai orchids and culture at Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest.
Orchids from the Land of Smiles
From 14 Feb 2025
Orchid Haven, Cloud Forest
Gardens by the Bay
