I decided to defy the abysmal weather and make a trip to Kew Gardens, a real urban oasis and home of some amazing plant life in south-west London.

Even if it’s a chilly, sunless day, you can take refuge in the hot houses and be transported to the tropics. There is a relatively small glasshouse which houses a pond and beautiful collection of waterlillies. Cue a photographic indulgence in colour, form and reflections.

Click on the first image to launch the full-size gallery.

But staying true to the spirit of previous posts about floral captures, a monchrome version of the darkest lily was created. I think it brings out the contrast between the dark water and the brilliance of the bloom.

What do you think?