A song for the Palm Houses as local community groups celebrate the historic reopening
Connecting the community to the power of nature was the theme at a special event at the Garden in September, as award-winning Scottish musician and storyteller Karine Polwart joined 800 guests for a Community Celebration at the newly restored heritage Palm Houses.
Billed as a Palm Housewarming, the event was the joyous finale of the Garden’s 2026 Creative Programme for communities. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the scheme brought together community groups from across Edinburgh to explore ways of connecting with nature – empowering individuals to develop their own relationship with the natural world.
Working alongside artists, musicians and specialists from the Botanics, participants created textile banners, ceramic vessels and a dedicated Palm House tea blend, all of which were exhibited on the day.
The event also welcomed Karine Polwart, whose new composition, Māmāku, was inspired by the black tree fern (Sphaeropteris medullaris) now growing at the centre of the Palm Houses. Native to New Zealand, the specimen stands where the much-loved 200-year-old Sabal mexicana once grew. Exploring themes of repair, renewal, healing and resilience, the new composition was performed for the occasion by the Botanics Choir, made up of both members of staff and people from the local community and led by Botanics’ Choirmaster Amy Leach.
Professor Julia Knights, Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh said: “The Palm Houses have always been places of wonder, discovery and connection. Now, with the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this project has brought new people, stories, creativity and perspectives into these historic spaces. We are delighted to celebrate that work together.
“At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, our role goes far beyond science and horticulture. As well as being a global institution tackling biodiversity loss and climate change, we also deliver education and engagement programmes to inspire and engage learners. We work with over 120 community groups and welcome visitors from across the world; our Gardens are a place where everyone can come together, share experiences and be inspired.”
The National Lottery Heritage Fund awarded £4.8 million to help save the Palm Houses, helping to support both the renovation of the historic buildings and community engagement work that is already bringing new audiences into the Palm Houses.