Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton
The Muttart Conservatory is in one of Edmonton’s most well known buildings. The Conservatory offers an indoor eco-trip around the world. Experience all the beauty of the earth. The pyramids’ display inside the Muttart Conservatory Gardens are a must see for all. Travel the world without leaving Edmonton!
Designed by Canadian architect Peter Hemingway, the Muttart Conservatory opened in September 1976.
All the plants in the Muttart Conservatory are grown in controlled conditions that allow the plants to go dormant in winter and blossom into normal spring growth of lush green leaves and blossoms of colour while snow still is on the ground outside.
The four pyramids-buildings of the Muttart Conservatory house thousands of species of plants. Each pyramid is a distinct environment, which represents the different biomes of the world.
The jungle-like environment in the Tropical Pyramid is lush and fragrant, like in an authentic jungle environment. The air inside the Tropical Pyramid is humid and warm. The plants come from tropical rainforests, and the tropical evergreen forests or tropical grasslands. A waterfall is in the centre of the Tropical Pyramid where small fish and water lilies reside. An Orchid Hut houses varieties of orchids from around the world.
The Arid Pyramid represents the dry areas of the earth. The plants inside the Arid Pyramid come from the hot and cold dry areas of the world. To survive their harsh environment, these plants have evolved over time into unusual shapes. These plants are of economic importance in otherwise non-arable areas, and the Muttart Conservatory offers you the chance to see these unusual plants without travelling to the four corners of the earth!
In the Feature Pyramid, the exhibit changes 5 – 7 times per year. Themed displays and seasonal celebrations are featured and change frequently.
The Central Atrium is more of an art gallery. It is encircled by a mural by Canadian artist Alex Janvier. The Central Atrium is home to changing visual art exhibits from new and emerging Canadian artists.
Plan to spend a whole or half day at the Muttart Conservatory. Check the website for special events, programs courses and camps.
http://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_recreation/attractions/muttart-conservatory.aspx