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SINGAPORE: Some 50,000 bromeliads have arrived in Singapore all the way from Florida to be part of the Gardens at Marina South.
Similar to the pineapple plant, about 35 percent of more than 3,475 species of bromeliads are rare. These plants can remove water pollutants and play an important role in energy conservation.
One of the species of bromeliads is the Tillandsia. It does not need soil or water because it takes what it needs from the air by converting nitrogen into nitrates.
Another bromeliad species is the Billbergia Strawberry, which blooms for just one week every year.
These species are native to North and South America and they are known for their unique features.
Anton van der Schans, Assistant Director of Horticulture, Gardens by the Bay, said: "One of the things we are trying to do is to introduce more colour. Not just because it looks more attractive, it also helps to capture people's attention and imagination, and hopefully that will encourage them to learn more about the environmental messages which are behind the collection as well."
These messages include how some bromeliads are endangered species because of deforestation and climate change.
To help these plants, the experts have erected artificial trees known as 'super trees'. These trees, some of which are up to 50 metres tall, not only support the plants but are also ecologically friendly.
Kenneth Er, General Manager, Gardens by the Bay, said: "The super trees, like real trees, would also photosynthesise using photovoltaic cells - converting solar energy into electricity... We are also exploring the possibility of the trees collecting rain water."
Another environmentally friendly feature is a conservatory which will use cooling technologies that can save up to 40 percent of the amount of energy used.
"Typically, some of these species require cooler temperatures for best foliage colour and flowering, so that's where our cool glass houses come in, to help provide the conditions to really display them at their best," said Mr van der Schans.
These plants will also absorb pollutants by cleaning the water that flows into three freshwater lakes – Kallang Basin, Marina Bay and Marina Channel. When combined, the three lakes will be Singapore's 15th reservoir, which will supply 10 percent of the country's drinking water.
Another 150,000 bromeliads will be coming to Singapore over the next two years. In all, the plants cost S$2 million. They will be available for public viewing by 2011.
The Gardens at Marina South – situated right beside the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort – will open 24 hours daily.
Together with Gardens at Marina East and Gardens at Marina Central, they form Gardens by the Bay, spanning over 155 football fields.
- CNA/so
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