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The Gardens
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In the Spring and Summer of 2007, the Century Plant in Longwood's Silver Garden came into Bloom!
Track the growth of this amazing plant (Agave americana).
The flower spike, growing at the incredible rate of 5–6 inches per day, shot through the greenhouse roof and reached heights of 30 to 35 feet.
This amazing plant was transplanted to the Silver Garden in 1997 from a 5-gallon container and thrived for ten years. Legend says the century plant takes one hundred years to bloom. However, century plants in cultivation may bloom much quicker, and Longwood’s living example took full advantage of the ideal conditions the Silver Garden offers.
The century plant uses all of its energy to produce this once-in-a-lifetime bloom. After it finished flowering it died, and Longwood gardeners replaced it with a younger plant.
Displays & Upcoming Events
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Spring Blooms
Now through May 20
Watch as spring color emerges to paint the landscape in vibrant hues. Breathe in the fresh spring air and relish the beauty of the Gardens, where every day something new is coming up.
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What's in Bloom
A team of Longwood Volunteers gathers horticultural highlights from the Outdoor Gardens and Conservatory. Download a pdf of their top picks for the week, including photos and locations.
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Wine & Jazz
Saturday, June 2
Featuring Grammy Award winner Dianne Reeves! Savor fine wines and sample fresh, local fare as you enjoy the sights and sounds of live jazz in our Gardens
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Light: Installations by Bruce Munro
Opening June 9
Experience Longwood Gardens in a whole new light through the evocative and imaginative art of Bruce Munro, British lighting artist.
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