CHRISTMAS DECORATION

This is the Christmas decor from the Arrival Square to the area between the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. Other than the plant nurseries, this is the only other area where one can find a huge concentration of Christmas Fir Trees. In all, there are 26 big- to medium-sized conifers.

However, I didn't manage to take the last few night photos after the ticketing counter area because I had to rush home midway after receiving a shocking text message.

Anyway, unlike commercial shopping centres, the invigorating smell of the real Christmas Trees here are amazing. I simply love to walk along this stretch of the path to catch a wisp of the wonderful scent before I have to wait another year to do that again. Not to mention, the glittering lights give a spectacular glow and ambience to the entire place. There are a few more days left for me to do that.

ARAUCARIA

I love Araucarias. From the Araucariaceae Family, the conifer has always struck me as very exotic because of its columnar form and tiered branching.

My first encounter with this tree was when I was young and visited the famous Buddhist temple at River Valley Road with my mother. The almost fake leaves amazed me to no end. Every time I was there, I would always feel the whorl of leaves etc.

I also like it that there is usually a slight curve to its form instead of a perfect upright posture. Unfortunately, when they grow too tall, they are often topped off. That is the worst that can happen to this tree.

PALM VALLEY

These photos of the palm valley at Singapore Botanic Gardens taken on 3 Feb 10 are amazing.

The background of conifers, particularly the Araucarias is my favourite. I have always love this columnar tree for a long time now.