Famous Botanical Gardens in Canada [Back]
Canada's botanical gardens showcase the country's dedication to preserving its diverse flora and promoting environmental education. Each garden offers unique collections and experiences, reflecting the varied ecosystems found across the nation.
Royal Botanical Gardens (Ontario)
Located in Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario, the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the largest botanical garden in Canada, encompassing over 980 hectares. Established in 1941, RBG features an extensive collection of both native and exotic plant species, organized into various themed gardens and natural areas. Notable sections include the Arboretum, Laking Garden, and Hendrie Park. The gardens also serve as a leading center for plant research and conservation.
Montreal Botanical Garden (Jardin botanique de Montreal)
Founded in 1931, the Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the world's largest botanical gardens, covering 75 hectares. It boasts over 22,000 plant species and cultivars, displayed across 10 exhibition greenhouses and more than 20 thematic gardens. Highlights include the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, and First Nations Garden. The garden plays a significant role in education, conservation, and scientific research.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Situated in Vancouver, British Columbia, VanDusen Botanical Garden opened to the public in 1975 and spans 22 hectares. The garden features over 7,500 plant species and varieties from around the world, arranged in various themed areas such as the Korean Pavilion, Mediterranean Garden, and Canadian Heritage Garden. VanDusen is also known for its Elizabethan hedge maze and commitment to sustainability.
Butchart Gardens
Located near Victoria on Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site of Canada, attracting over a million visitors annually. Established in 1904, the gardens cover 22 hectares and feature distinct areas such as the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, and Japanese Garden. Renowned for their year-round beauty, the gardens also host seasonal events and performances.
Toronto Botanical Garden
Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) is a contemporary garden located in Toronto, Ontario, offering an array of themed gardens spread over nearly four acres. TBG provides innovative indoor and outdoor learning experiences for all ages, including programs, garden tours, and special events. The LEED-certified building houses a library, garden shop, and cafe.
University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Established in 1959, the University of Alberta Botanic Garden is located near Edmonton, Alberta, covering 97 hectares. The garden includes cultivated gardens, plant collections, and natural areas. Notable features are the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, Tropical Showhouse with exotic butterflies, and Indigenous Garden. The garden serves as a research site and offers numerous educational programs.
Memorial University of Newfoundland Botanical Garden
Opened in 1971, this botanical garden in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, spans 45 hectares. It showcases native plants of Newfoundland and Labrador, cultivated gardens, and natural habitats like boreal forests and bogs. The garden offers educational programs, workshops, and seasonal events, emphasizing local flora and ecological research.
Kingsbrae Garden
Located in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Kingsbrae Garden encompasses 11 hectares and features over 50,000 perennials in various themed gardens. Highlights include the Rose Garden, Knot Garden, and Sculpture Garden. The garden also hosts art exhibits, workshops, and community events, promoting horticulture and the arts.
Halifax Public Gardens
Established in 1867, the Halifax Public Gardens in Nova Scotia is one of the finest surviving examples of a Victorian garden in North America. Covering 6.5 hectares, the gardens feature ornate fountains, statues, and a bandstand, along with a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers. The gardens are a designated National Historic Site of Canada.
UBC Botanical Garden
Founded in 1916, the UBC Botanical Garden in Vancouver, British Columbia, is Canada's oldest university botanical garden. Spanning 44 hectares, it includes a diverse collection of plants from temperate regions worldwide, an Asian Garden, Alpine Garden, and a Food Garden. The garden also features the Greenheart TreeWalk, an aerial trail system through the forest canopy.