Mainz's Botanical Garden has welcomed the arrival of new large plants, including what is believed to be the largest cactus species in the world, Pachycereus pringlei. Described as an "extraordinary delivery" by Ralf Omlor, the Scientific Director of the Botanical Garden, this shipment marks a significant enhancement for the facility as it prepares to open two new greenhouses.
The impressive deliveries arrived appropriately bubble-wrapped and laid on mattresses, foam, and wooden pallets. These plants were secured through generous donations from the Friends of the Botanical Garden and the Botanical Garden Foundation, totaling around €25,000. These funds will allow for both the introduction of the new cacti and other plants as well as the revitalization of the greenhouses.
Omlor, who has spent years preparing for the greenhouse upgrades, stated, "Bisher hatten wir Gewächshäuser, die nur vier Meter hoch sind, aber die neuen Gewächshäuser sind jetzt neun Meter hoch." This height increases the potential for enriching the display and cultivation of larger plant species, particularly those endemic to arid regions. One greenhouse will showcase American plants, and the other will be home to African species.
The delivery of the giant cactus, which weighs around 500 kilograms and has been growing for approximately 40 years, adds another layer of excitement. Omlor explained, "Die werden echt riesig groß," referring to the cactus, which can grow giant, reaching heights of up to 12 meters, confirming its potential to outgrow the greenhouse space someday. Currently, it has settled at around four meters tall, which gives it plenty of time to adapt and grow.
Matthias Uhlig from the Kernen nursery near Stuttgart took charge of the cactus delivery process. He traveled to Gran Canaria to select the plants with Omlor over video chat. "Und wir haben sie dann mit einem Lkw und der Fähre zu uns in die Gärtnerei gebracht," he shared, recounting the logistical effort involved. The giant cactus will remain at the nursery for acclimatization before being placed inside one of the new greenhouses.
The grand opening of these greenhouses is set for mid-April. Following the opening, the new plants and particularly the gigantic cactus can be explored by the general public. Omlor is particularly optimistic about the educational opportunities these greenhouses will provide. He mentioned, "Jetzt können wir auch mit größeren Gruppen hier reingehen und Dinge über die Pflanzen erklären," highlighting the fact the garden can now cater to larger educational groups. This aligns with the garden’s mission to engage the community and educate visitors about diverse plant ecosystems.
By not only enriching the Botanical Garden's offerings but also providing new hospitality for education, the recent plant addition stands as both a visual marvel and as part of future learning initiatives within Mainz. With the recognition of how unique this experience is, the community may take pride in its botanical advancements, heralding the arrival of spring along with new knowledge and discovery opportunities.
This enhancement of the Botanical Garden shows Mainz’s commitment to cultural and educational growth, ensuring visitors not only enjoy the beauty of nature but also understand the ecosystems represented within. The new giant cactus’s presence will surely inspire curiosity and awe among the young and old alike as it begins its new life at Mainz’s Botanical Garden.