Longwood Gardens prepares to unfold a summer of shimmering beauty and unforgettable moments during its Festival of Fountains season, on view May 9 through Sept. 28, 2025. At the heart of the season stands the long-awaited return of the newly restored Waterlily Court.
On May 9, Longwood will unveil the Waterlily Court following its thoughtful renovation as part of Longwood Reimagined, the Gardens’ most ambitious transformation in a century. More captivating than ever, its dark, reflective pools once again showcase elegant floating foliage and vivid blooms, including nearly 100 varieties of tropical and hardy waterlilies, towering aquatic cannas, and ethereal lotus.
First opened in 1957 and redesigned in 1989 by renowned landscape architect Sir Peter Shepheard, the Waterlily Court has long served as a central gem outside of Longwood’s historic Main Conservatory. The Waterlily Court debuts a series of enhancements, including a graceful new covered arcade to the north and west, with the soaring West Conservatory visible just beyond.
“The Waterlily Court is one of Longwood’s most beloved spaces, cherished for its remarkable plant collection,” said Paul B. Redman, President and CEO of Longwood Gardens. “Its return marks both a homecoming and a new chapter in our ongoing story of beauty, innovation, and global horticultural leadership.”
Longwood’s renowned waterlily and water platter collections reflect decades of horticultural excellence and collaboration. Among its jewels is the Victoria ‘Longwood Hybrid’, a cross between Victoria cruziana and Victoria amazonica introduced in 1960. With its immense leaves and pineapple-scented blooms, this hybrid continues to captivate guests each summer.
The Victoria platters will make their debut in the pools in late May when temperatures warm. Also making a splash this year is Nymphaea stuhlmannii, a rare yellow waterlily acquired during a recent Longwood plant exploration trip to Tanzania. Through Longwood’s research facilities and horticultural expertise, seeds of this waterlily will be carefully preserved and safeguarded in the Gardens’ conservation seedbank, ensuring its protection for generations to come.
The Waterlily Court remains in peak bloom through early October, weather permitting.
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