By Lauren O’Donnell
“I AM GROOT!” For the first time, Groot has taken root at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! And for this topiary, that is not the only first… Here are five fun facts about this new Groot topiary—and make sure you check out Groot at EPCOT near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery, now through May 27, 2024.
1. First Topiary Featuring a Musical Element
It’s dance-off time—because Groot holds a dynamic mix tape titled “Green House Mix Vol. 1,” with his own soundtrack playing! This is the first time a musical element has been incorporated into a topiary at EPCOT.
The music featured includes songs from the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction that are sure to get you in the dancing spirit:
- “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
- “Disco Inferno” by The Trammps
- “Conga” by Gloria Estefan
- “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
- “I Ran” by A Flock of Seagulls
- “One Way or Another” by Blondie
2. A Nod to the Horticulture Team
The mix tape title, “Green House Mix Vol. 1,” is actually a nod to the incredible horticulture team at the Walt Disney World Resort that helps to bring the topiaries to life.
3. The Greenery Behind Groot’s Leaves
Speaking of the horticulture team, for Groot’s leaves, they utilized the Ficus pumila plant—commonly known as the climbing fig. The leaves stay small while the plant is young, growing larger over time. It creeps and secretes latex which allows the plant to adhere to surfaces when it dries. How cool!
4. Inspired by the I Am Groot Series
The design for the Groot topiary draws inspiration from the “Groot Takes a Bath” episode featured in Season 1 of I Am Groot on Disney+. Here’s the synopsis: Groot’s attempts at using bath toys, candles, and bath bombs lead to an epic leafy mess; after his leaves grow to bushy-like proportions, Groot decides to take his haircut into his own hands and get inventive with his new hairdo.
5. Not-So-Little Groot
Groot himself stands tall at 5 feet, with the full topiary reaching a total height of 13 feet ,8 inches!
It is so exciting that Groot has joined the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Don’t forget: You can find him near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery, now through May 27.
For those who want to further celebrate their Groot fandom, here are some fun products featuring our favorite flora colossus from the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy:
· Funko Pop! I Am Groot, Fancy Groot
· Baby Groot Big Feet Plush – Guardians of the Galaxy
· LEGO I Am Groot – The Infinity Saga
· I Am Groot Mini Figure Collection