Recently, Phipps Conservatory transformed our Tropical Forest Hawaii exhibit into Tropical Forest Panama: Bridge to Biodiversity! Panama is home to an incredibly rich variety of plants due to it's diverse climates and ecosystems. In our final project in our Fairchild Challenge, local high school, middle school and elementary school students were asked to design and build sculptures that represent the fascinating world of Panama’s native plants while using creativity to make a meaningful and sustainable project.

Challenge 5 and D: Bountiful Bouquets: Blossoms of the Jungle, asked students to design and create a 3D sculpture of their very own “bouquet” made of at least three flowering plants that are endemic or native to Panama—meaning they are only found in or originated in this country, respectively. In their design, they were asked to consider each plant's special features and unique characteristics that would help them contribute to the environment, whether that be from supporting local wildlife to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem in Panama. All projects have been created entirely out of repurposed and recycled materials. The seven highest scoring projects will be on display in the Welcome Center Gallery throughout our Summer Flower Show: Jungle Quest!