Lily Pool, Garfield Park Conservatory by mj knelly

The tropical lily pool at Garfield Park Conservatory is home to many unique aquatic plants. One of the most stunning of these is the Giant Water Platter or Victoria Water Lily (Victoria ‘Longwood Hybrid’), who’s leaves can grow to four feet in diameter. The delicate leaves on top belie a fierce underside made of thorns and ribs that give the leaves its structure. This structure, which served as the architectural inspiration for the Crystal Palace, can support the weight of a child.

(www.garfield-conservatory.org , Location: 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60624)
This image was taken in partnership with the City of Chicago, Department of Cultural Affairs, Office of Tourism.