Famous Botanical Gardens in Belgium [Back]

Belgium's botanical gardens exemplify the nation's commitment to preserving plant biodiversity and fostering environmental education. Each garden offers unique collections and landscapes, providing insights into both local and global flora.

Meise Botanic Garden

Located in Meise, just north of Brussels, Meise Botanic Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, covering approximately 92 hectares. It houses about 18,000 plant species, representing around 6% of all known plant species. The garden features the historic Bouchout Castle, expansive outdoor collections, and the Plant Palace - a vast greenhouse complex showcasing tropical, subtropical, and Mediterranean plants. Established in 1958, the garden serves as a center for botanical research, conservation, and public education.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Commissioned by King Leopold II and designed by architect Alphonse Balat, the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a monumental complex of heated greenhouses located in the park of the Royal Palace of Laeken in Brussels. Built between 1874 and 1905, the greenhouses house the royal botanic collection, including a vast array of tropical, subtropical, and cold-weather plants. Notable for their architectural grandeur and historical significance, the greenhouses are open to the public only a few weeks each year, typically in April and May, when many plants are in full bloom.

Arboretum Wespelaar

Situated in the village of Wespelaar, Arboretum Wespelaar spans approximately 20 hectares and is home to around 2,000 different taxa of trees and shrubs. The arboretum focuses on the conservation of rare and endangered woody plants, with notable collections of magnolias, maples, and rhododendrons. Established in 1984 and opened to the public in 2011, it plays a significant role in preserving plant biodiversity and offers visitors a chance to explore diverse plant species in a serene setting.

Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis

Established in 1738, the Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, also known as the Leuven Botanical Garden, is Belgium's oldest botanical garden. Covering 2.2 hectares in the heart of Leuven, it was initially created for medical students of the University of Leuven to study medicinal plants. Today, it features a diverse collection of ornamental plants, herbs, and trees, along with greenhouses containing tropical and subtropical species. The garden serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors and continues to support educational and research activities.

Arboretum Kalmthout

Arboretum Kalmthout, located in the Antwerp province, began as a tree nursery in 1856 and has evolved into a renowned botanical garden. Covering approximately 12.5 hectares, it boasts an extensive collection of trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world, including notable collections of witch hazels and magnolias. The arboretum is recognized for its conservation efforts and serves as a center for botanical research, education, and horticultural excellence.

Botanical Garden of Mechelen

The Botanical Garden of Mechelen, also known as Kruidtuin Mechelen, is the largest public park within the historic city center of Mechelen. Established in 1862, it features a blend of French formal and English landscape garden styles. The garden includes a medicinal and culinary herb section dedicated to the Renaissance botanist Rembert Dodoens, ornamental plantings, and recreational spaces. It serves as a green oasis for residents and visitors, offering a blend of botanical interest and leisure opportunities.

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