The Volunteer Park Conservatory was modeled after
The Crystal Palace in London. Proposed in 1893, the Conservatory was finished in 1912. The designs and framework were purchased by the City of Seattle from Hitchings Company in New York. The building was put up by the parks staff. Over the years, a lot of the plants have been supplied by either donations or confisticated plants.
The Conservatory consists of 5 "houses" within the building:
Bromeliad House
Temperature: 72f
Humidity: 60%
Tropical Climate
Bromeliads are found mainly in New World tropics. They collect water inside their rosettes, and also absorb moisture from the air. The flower is surrounded by colorful leaves.
Palm House
Temperature: 72f
Humidity: 60%
Tropical Climate
Many palms are showcased here, as well as many types of orchids, throughout the palm displays. There are 13 species of orchids that live in the Pacific Northwest.
Fern House
Termerature: 72f
Humidity: 60%
Tropical Climate
The Fern House is a peaceful setting filled with ferns and other featured plants. Some plants are permanant, and others are on a rotational basis. There is a small pond, featuring bog plants that create a peaceful setting. Some of the rotational plants are Hibiscus, Aroids, Begonias, and Brugmansias.
Seasonal Display Hosue
Temperature: 65f
Humidity: 50%
Temperate Climate
Displays in this house change with the seasons. A couple examples from each season: Spring has bulbs and Hydrangeas, Summer has Delphiniums and Lilies, Fall has Chrysanthemums and Coleus, Winter has Gardenias and Azaleas, and a permanent display with a 75 year old flowering Jade and an European Olive Tree.
Cactus House
Temperature: 72 - 80f
Very Low Humidity
Arid Climate
Many varieties of cacti and succulents are displayed here. Springtime is an excellent time to visit and see the blooms.
Volunteer Park Conservatory info:
Regular Hours:
Open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(Including most holidays. Please call to confirm.)
Summer Hours:
Memorial Day thru Labor Day 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: Free
CONTACT INFORMATION:
(206) 684-4743
TOURS
Take a Mini-Tropical Tour!
Docents lead 30-60 minute tours, including information on Conservatory plant collections, architectural history, plant acquisition and production, physical facility operation, and behind-the-scenes news.
Ideal for groups of K-12 students, senior citizens, college students, gardeners, tourists, or Seattle landmark lovers.
Fees: $25 per group, free for K-12 school groups
Times: Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Sat. at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. beginning February 28, 2006
Please schedule two weeks in advance
More information: (206)322-4112 | foc@volunteerparkconservatory.org
The Friends of the Conservatory