Notable Botanical Gardens in France [Back]
France's botanical gardens play a crucial role in plant conservation, research, and education, reflecting the country's rich horticultural history and commitment to preserving plant diversity.
Jardin des Plantes (Paris)
Established in 1626, the Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden of France, located in the heart of Paris. It covers approximately 28 hectares and houses the National Museum of Natural History. The garden features over 10,000 plant species, thematic gardens, and greenhouses showcasing tropical and desert plants. The Alpine Garden and the Rose Garden are popular highlights.
Jardin des Serres d'Auteuil (Paris)
Founded in 1898, this botanical garden in the Bois de Boulogne is renowned for its historic greenhouses that house an impressive collection of tropical plants. The palm house, orchid house, and fern house are key attractions, along with its carefully landscaped grounds.
Arboretum de la Vallée-aux-Loups (Châtenay-Malabry)
This arboretum, located near Paris, covers 13.5 hectares and features over 500 species of trees and shrubs, including rare and exotic varieties. It also includes a collection of bonsai and a Japanese-style garden. The arboretum is known for its peaceful setting and well-maintained walking paths.
Domaine du Rayol (Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer)
Located along the Mediterranean coast, Domaine du Rayol covers 20 hectares and features plants from Mediterranean climates worldwide, including California, South Africa, and Australia. It was established in 1910 and serves as a center for Mediterranean plant conservation and education.
Jardin du Vasterival (Sainte-Marguerite-sur-Mer)
Created by Princess Greta Sturdza in the 1950s, this private garden covers 12 hectares and is known for its diverse plant collections and naturalistic design. The garden features rhododendrons, azaleas, and other flowering shrubs arranged to create a harmonious landscape.
Jardin Botanique de Haute-Bretagne (Le Châtellier)
Spanning 25 hectares, this contemporary botanical garden features 24 distinct themed gardens inspired by different regions of the world. The gardens include an Asian Garden, a Celtic Garden, and a Tropical Garden, offering a diverse display of plant life.
Parc Floral de la Source (Orléans)
Established in 1964, this 35-hectare park is known for its floral displays and butterfly house. It features themed gardens, including a rose garden and an iris garden. The Loiret River emerges from a natural spring within the park, adding to its scenic beauty.
Jardin Botanique de l'Université de Strasbourg (Strasbourg)
Founded in 1619, this 3.5-hectare botanical garden is part of the University of Strasbourg. It includes a historic greenhouse, alpine garden, and over 6,000 plant species. It serves as an important center for botanical research and conservation.
Jardin Public de Bordeaux (Bordeaux)
This public park was established in 1746 and features an English-style landscape design. Covering 10 hectares, it includes ornamental gardens, a botanical collection, and a natural history museum. The park is a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier (Montpellier)
Founded in 1593, this is France's oldest botanical garden. It covers 4.5 hectares and serves as a research and teaching garden for the University of Montpellier. The garden features a medicinal plant section, greenhouses, and a collection of succulents and cacti.
Jardin des Plantes de Nantes (Nantes)
Established in 1807, this 7-hectare botanical garden houses over 10,000 plant species. It features themed gardens, including a medicinal plant garden and a tropical greenhouse. The garden is known for its artistic plant sculptures and creative landscape designs.