Victoria amazonica tested at Kew Gardens in the viral stiletto challenge

At Kew Gardens, a giant leaf of Victoria amazonica featured in a striking weight-bearing demonstration inspired by a viral stiletto pose. The demonstration formed part of the Waterlily Weigh-Off 2025, in which participating gardens tested giant waterlily leaves under controlled loads, usually using sandbags.

The leaves can grow to around three metres across. Their pronounced underside ribs distribute weight, while the raised rim helps keep water off the upper surface. According to the cited BBC report, the Kew leaf was assessed against a previous reported load of 64.4 kilograms and entered for a People’s Choice distinction. During the filmed demonstration, an employee weighing about 54 kilograms balanced on one foot, wearing protective footwear and using the support prepared by the horticultural team.

The demonstration combined horticultural science, plant care and public engagement, drawing attention to the remarkable structure of giant waterlily leaves without suggesting that visitors should repeat the test themselves.