Ever stepped into a realm where the air hangs thick with moisture and the scent of exotic blooms? That’s the Serres Tropicales in Lyon. This isn’t just a greenhouse. It’s a living museum. It showcases the rich biodiversity of warm and humid tropical forests.
Before these stunning structures, older greenhouses stood where Bernard de Jussieu’s statue now resides. By 1903, these had become outdated and were replaced. These works coincided with the repurposing of military land. The land included Fort des Charpennes and Fort de la Tête d’Or. It marked the park’s southern boundary.
The Serres Tropicales was cutting edge. It was inspired by the Belgian greenhouses of the Jardin Royal de Laeken. Innovative roof lanterns allowed for better ventilation. This was crucial for plant preservation in summer. These features helped maintain optimal conditions for the diverse flora within.
Spanning 2,280 square meters, the original complex divided into two sections. There were the Serres froides cold greenhouses and the Serres tropicales tropical greenhouses. The Serres froides ran along the Jardin mexicain. Sadly, they are now inaccessible due to their deteriorated state. We are lucky to enjoy the Serres Tropicales near the Lycée du Parc entrance.
Today, the Serres Tropicales houses an impressive collection. It boasts 2,800 taxa. Many of these are endangered species. The greenhouses hold national collections of Araceae, Bromeliaceae and Begonias. You can also find diverse useful plants. The Serres Tropicales divides into themed spaces each with its own allure.
First is the entrance pavilion. It serves as an exhibition hall. Here, you’ll find special plants from the collections. Sometimes, it even shows off blooms that are usually hidden.
Next is the canopy greenhouse. It features epiphytes. These plants grow high on tree branches. The central corridor mainly displays plants from tropical America.
The Araceae greenhouse holds a part of the national collection. You’ll see it mixed with other tropical plants. Finally, there is the orchid pavilion. Orchids bloom here in stages alongside begonias and other exotic plants.
Make sure you seek out the cacao tree Theobroma cacao. Look for Aechmea biflora. Do not miss Aristolochia labiata and Begonia ‘Bettina de Rothschild’. Keep an eye out for the lotus-leaved begonia Begonia nelumbiifolia too.
Want to explore further? Download the discovery tour of the Serres Tropicales. It is available for free. You can access it year-round. Just check the opening hours. The Serres Tropicales in Lyon offers an escape. It allows visitors to explore the wonders of the tropics. It is right in the heart of the city.