Below, some of the plants we photographed at the 2012 show. Don't miss the RHS London Orchid & Botanical Art Show 2013, from 12-13 April, featuring beautiful displays by specialist orchid growers from around the globe.
Large-flowered Cattleya hybrids were the stars of the Chantelle Orchids display, including golden ‘Hsiang Yu Beauty’ and vibrant pink ‘Bright Sun’.
The McBean's Orchids stand showcased a spectacular array of cymbidiums, including unusual three-lipped Cymbidium Mavourneen ‘Jester’ (pictured). Also on display, a new, solid-coloured Oncidium McBeans Laura 'Garnet’, one of the darkest oncidiums the nursery has seen.
Ratcliffe Orchids showed a wide range of slipper orchids, as well as good selections of fragrant orchids. The display incorporated some striking orchid sculptures, crafted from copper.
The Orchid Society of Great Britain took Treasure Island as its theme. Using cork bark, moss and sand, members created sea cliffs studded with orchids; from everyday beginner orchids to unusual collector’s orchids.
The Writhlington School Orchid Project exhibit featured the school’s work in Laos. Some of the plants were more than 20 years old, including a fine cascading Dendrobium nobile. This naturalistic arrangement was inspired by orchids that students had seen growing in their wild habitats.