One of the world’s most extraordinary plants returns to the Hortus
From June 22, visitors to the Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam can once again admire one of the world’s most remarkable plants: the Welwitschia mirabilis.
Although this unique species has been part of the Hortus collection for more than thirty years, it has not been on public display for the past fourteen years due to its highly specific requirements for light, temperature and humidity. Thanks to a specially designed climate-controlled display case, gifted by the Friends of the Hortus in celebration of their 40th anniversary, this extraordinary desert plant is returning to the Palm Greenhouse.
What makes the Welwitschia so special? In the wild, it grows only in the Namib Desert of Namibia and Angola. The plant consists of just two leaves that continue growing throughout its entire life. Over time, sun and wind cause the leaves to split, curl and fray, giving the plant the appearance of a pile of dried foliage. Yet some specimens can live for more than 1,000 years.
The Hortus will celebrate the return of the Welwitschia with a special opening week featuring lectures and a festive gathering.
📅 From June 22, 2026
📍 Palm Greenhouse, Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
A rare opportunity to see one of the world’s oldest and most unusual plants up close.