The Spectacular 'Flower Stream' Garden In Holland Bursts With Seven Million Colorful Blooms

Every year when spring arrives, one of the largest flower gardens in the world opens its doors to visitors, allowing millions of people to soak in its mesmerizing beauty. Stretching over 79 acres, the Keukenhof is a breath-taking garden located in South Holland. About seven million bulbs are planted here every year, showing off the best Dutch flower producers.

The beloved tulips of Holland are well represented with more than 800 varieties on display, but also hyacinth and narcissus, amongst other bulbous flowers, all arranged in neat, colorful rivers. More than 100 royal suppliers participate annually, each one bringing their best bulbs to be planted. That makes Keukenhof not only a wonderful photo opportunity but a site where it’s possible to discover Holland’s incredible flower industry.

Though tulips are closely associated with the Netherlands today, they were introduced in Holland in the 16th century from the Ottoman Empire. Their popularity grew throughout the 17th century when the Dutch Golden Age took place. During that time of extreme wealth, tulips were so coveted they were traded as currency until the “Tulip Mania” bubble burst.

The Keukenhof’s history dates back hundreds of years when the grounds were used to grow fruit and vegetables for Jacqueline of Bavaria‘s kitchen staff. The word Keukenhof translates to “kitchen garden.” Later a castle was added in 1641, and the mid-19th century, the landscaping was designed to mimic an English garden. The tradition of exhibiting spring flowers started in 1949 when twenty of the country’s leading flower growers used the grounds to show off their wares.

From mid-March to mid-May, visitors come from across the globe to admire the colorful blooms at the Keukenhof. As one of the most stunning gardens in the world, the Keukenhof helps keep the proud tradition of Dutch flowers alive and well.

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