Floral clock

What is Floral clock?

A floral clock is a large working clock set outdoors, with its face made from a bed of living flowers and plants arranged in patterns to mark the hours and minutes. The clock hands are often metal arms, sometimes covered with plants as well, that move above the flowerbed. These clocks are usually found in parks or public gardens, where visitors can see both the time and a colourful display of seasonal flowers.

Where does Floral clock come from?

The first floral clock was created in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1903, based on an idea by John McHattie, the city's Superintendent of Parks. It was installed in West Princes Street Gardens, next to the statue of Allan Ramsay. The original clock had only an hour hand, with a minute hand added the following year. Its mechanism was made from parts salvaged from a church and later replaced with an electric system. The concept quickly spread across the United Kingdom and then to other countries.

How Floral clock is made

To make a floral clock, a working clock mechanism is installed underground or in a plinth, with the clock face marked out above ground as a flowerbed. The face is planted with colourful bedding plants arranged to show the numbers and divisions of the clock. The hands are mounted above the flowers and may be decorated with plants themselves. The planting is changed seasonally to keep the display fresh.

When and where Floral clock is used

Floral clocks are mainly used as decorative features in public spaces such as parks, gardens, and plazas. They attract visitors who come to see the creative planting and the working clock. Some cities have made their floral clocks local landmarks, and special versions have been created for events or dedications. The clocks are maintained by gardeners and clockmakers.

Forms of Floral clock

Some floral clocks have unique features. The clock in Zacatlán, Mexico, has two faces, both moved by the same mechanism, and each face is five metres across. Edinburgh's original clock once included a mechanical cuckoo that appeared every quarter hour. Floral clocks can vary in size, design, and the types of plants used, depending on local climate and tradition.

What Floral clock means

Floral clocks have become symbols of civic pride in many cities, often featured in postcards and tourist guides. The Edinburgh clock is a well-known landmark and has inspired similar displays worldwide. In some places, floral clocks are created for special occasions or to honour individuals, such as the clock in Camarillo, California, dedicated to David Pick.

Questions people ask about Floral clock

Good reading and sources

• Floral clock on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data