It can be so easy to fall into a weekend routine in between getaways. My latest "routine" consists of collecting indoor plants, succulents, and cacti! Chris has declared this particular routine MUST come to a halt soon due to space concerns, however I've expressed that it is perfectly acceptable to keep these spiny globules in the hallway, next to the bed, under the dining table, and in the kitchen sink (only between dish washing and food prep of course ).
Between you and I, I thought I'd won this debate with extreme persistence con pouty lip, until Chris pulled the ultimate wildcard: Two tickets to The Conservatory of Flowers special exhibit, The Wild Bunch, featuring succulents and cacti from around the world. He'd somehow quelled my obsession with a sixteen dollar investment.
I said goodbye to my spiky constituents the next day and headed over to The Conservatory with my love.
The original Conservatory was purchased by wealthy California businessman, James Lick.. He unfortunately passed away before it could be built on his estate.
After being purchased by a second group of investors, it was gifted to the City of San Francisco and permanently constructed in Golden Gate Park.
It is hard to believe this structure has survived fires, earthquakes, and storms. It was once on the 100 most endangered monuments list!
In 1998, 25 million dollars was raised as part of a restoration project to bring it back to its current level of glory. It re-opened in 2003.
Far from the parched environment of the special exhibit, your first steps inside this Victorian Botanical garden transport you to a rain forest amidst the City.
I am obsessed with the hanging vines in this walkway.
Nymphaea, Aquatic Garden
I almost all but forgot about my drought resistant dumplings o'thorn when I saw this stunning orchid cabinet:
My favorite plants in the permanent collection. I'm still trying to identify them all! Any help would be appreciated!
Cattleya Orchid
Dracula Orchid
Tacca chantrieri - Also know as: Bat Flower
Vriesea splendens
Wild Bunch
When we finally meandered our way to the special exhibit we were greeted with wild west theme music and a little Ghost Town.
The theme itself was a clever way to display the arid herbage, however after seeing so many stunning plants in the permanent collection, this garden left me a bit wanting. I was hoping to see decade old Burro's Tail and sweeping displays of cascading String of Pearls. To my dismay, these particular succulents were almost new propagation!
They did have a striking display of Rat Tail Cactus which I adored. Its one of the next on my list to collect if I can convince Chris that it would make a great statement piece for the dining room!
So many details went into the little ghost town, they even built an amazing miniature church. I wonder why they were not able to acquire more exotic examples of succulents? Have I become a succulent snob?!
The exhibit has for now stalled my passion for plant collecting and it has definitely inspired me to take better care of the plants I already have. Since the greenhouse is so close to us I'm thinking about investing in a member's pass so I can come visit this San Francisco treasure anytime I feel the urge to run up to our local nursery. For sixty dollars you have year long unlimited access! I have a feeling Chris will agree it's worth the investment, if only for his sanity,
Tips for Visiting:
The special exhibit has been running since May 6th and will continue through October 16th, so there is plenty of time to plan ahead.
Visit on a cold dreary day when the warmth and tropical climate would be relief for your psyche!
Keep an eye out for cinnamon and vanilla plants! These hidden beauties are a treat when you find them.
Photography Specific
Keep in mind what kind of weather proofing your lenses have and plan accordingly. I had to "warm up" my Rokinon 14 mm so it would not fog up in the humid areas of the Conservatory.
