“What interested me about this project is that it has never been done before. It’s filled with a lot of unknowns,” said Danzak. “I wasn’t sure if my ideas would work, but my instinct told me to get that tree.”

The first challenge – transporting the 200,000 pound tree – was solved by dividing it into 120 pieces, loading them on 12, 52-foot tractor-trailers and driving to Las Vegas. Once the tree arrived at Bellagio, the horticulture department faced a new challenge: preserving and using the tree in a way that would do it justice. Structural engineers ultimately used steel to reconstruct the Banyan tree in the five-acre greenhouse behind Bellagio, where it will remain until transferred into the Conservatory.

For Chinese New Year, the Banyan tree will be foliated with a profusion of orchids and its boughs will be strung with red lanterns, creating not only a stunning focal point with favorite elements of the holiday but also an instructive tool educating visitors on the different species of flowers they encounter as they walk beneath the sprawling limbs.

Favorite elements from past displays are also included: exotic flowers such as bromeliads and football chrysanthemums will fill the Conservatory. Stalks of bamboo, citrus fruits, strings of over-scaled firecrackers, a six-tiered pagoda, and a footbridge will also appear. Representations of the incoming zodiac animal – 2006 is the Year of the Dog – will be incorporated and the 18-foot God of Fortune, surrounded by I-ching coins symbolizing wealth and good luck, will welcome those who visit.

The Conservatory, a tranquil refuge from the bright lights and constant sounds that permeate Las Vegas, is well worth visiting if only to soak up its restorative properties. The Chinese New Year display will be available for viewing from mid-January to the end of February.