Illinois College wins big at 2026 Chelsea Flower Show

JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois College's orchid research collaboration earned its second gold medal in a row at the 2026 Chelsea Flower Show.

Its collaborative Orchid Conservation Chelsea exhibit was recognized at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London.

In 2025, Illinois College students and faculty contributed research expertise, exhibit preparation and public education efforts for the display.

Students Sydni Maggart and Jena Sellers participated in the project, working alongside international researches and institutions including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden; Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden in Hong Kong; Naples Botanical Garden in Florida; and other global conservation partners.

The 2026 exhibit, "The Orchids of China - Beauty & Conservation," brought together conservationists, scientists, and botanical institutions to highlight the diversity and urgent conservation needs of one of the world's most endangered plant families.