There is something magical, intriguing and tranquil about botanical gardens. Instagram account @folia_folia dedicates its time to capturing these vibrant and wild lush spaces to share with the rest of the world.

@folia_folia is a photographer based in Vienna, Austria. 'As a photographer, I am intrigued by the interplay of plants, their forms and textures, their architectural surroundings and changes in the ambient light.' 

Your Instagram account @folia_folia currently has over 122 000 followers (and counting) and is incredibly inspiring. Why did you create @folia_folia and did you expect it to get this big? 

Thank you for your kind words. I am glad to hear that you like it! I started this project about two and a half years ago. I decided to focus on something that you might call ‘’visual botanical experience’’. I didn’t expect it to become this big, but I like to grow things. (pardon the pun!)

What do you love most about botanical gardens? 

I love the atmosphere of botanical gardens. Time seems to pass differently there. I enjoy the tranquillity of the gardens and I try to capture it in my photos. The plants and their multiplicity are fascinating. 

What’s your favourite Botanical Garden to explore? 

It’s difficult to answer this question. I love visiting and exploring all botanical gardens. Often small botanical gardens are very charming and have an amazing selections of plants. The greenhouse I spend most of my time in is the Palmenhaus in Schönbrunn Garden in Vienna.  This Botanical Garden is quite big and is the closest greenhouse to where I live. I’m so lucky to have this tropical paradise so close to me. 

Have plants always played an important role in your life? 

Yes, since when I was a child I have always had many plants around me. I now have around 80 plants at home. They help us nurture and heal.

What’s your favourite plant? Currently, my favourite plant is Sinningia leucotricha; a unique plant with beautiful foliage and flowers. I also like the Hoya genus, especially Hoya obovata and Hoya serpens. I’m a lover of all plants and I couldn't say I dislike any plant if I'm honest! 

Are all the images you use on @folia_folia all yours? If so, you must spend some time exploring! They are truly amazing! 

Thank you! Yes, I take the photos. I visit botanical gardens of the cities I travel to and I like to spend my free time surrounded by nature. 

What music are you enjoying listening to at the moment? 

I often listen to Haruomi Hosono’s album ‘’Watering a flower’’. Also Mort Garson’s ‘’Plantasia’’ is an all-time favourite of mine.

 All images remain the copyright of @folia_folia