FULL GARDENS .com - Famous Botanical Gardens in Israel

Famous Botanical Gardens in Israel [Back]

Israel's diverse climate and rich history are reflected in its botanical gardens, which serve as centers for conservation, research, and public education. These gardens offer visitors the opportunity to explore a wide array of plant species from various regions, showcasing the country's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Here are some of the most notable botanical gardens in Israel:

Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

Located on the southeastern edge of the Givat Ram campus of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens is the largest in Israel, spanning 30 acres. It features over 6,000 plant species from around the world, organized into six phytogeographical sections: Southern Africa, Europe, North America, Australia, South-East and Central Asia, and the Mediterranean. Each section simulates the native landscape of its respective region, ensuring that there's always something in bloom. Notably, the garden houses an extensive collection of bonsai trees and a tropical conservatory.

National Botanic Garden of Israel

Situated on the Mount Scopus campus of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the National Botanic Garden of Israel covers 25 dunams and contains approximately 950 plant species, 40% of which are native. Established in 1931, it was the first botanical garden in the Land of Israel, aiming to document all wild plants of Israel and the Middle East. The garden also serves as an ecological nature reserve and includes historical burial caves from the Second Temple period.

Ein Gedi Botanical Garden

Located within Kibbutz Ein Gedi on the western shore of the Dead Sea, the Ein Gedi Botanical Garden uniquely integrates residential living with botanical exhibits. Covering 100 dunams (10 hectares), it houses over 900 plant species from around the world, including date palms, tropical flora, and desert vegetation. The garden is recognized as the only populated botanical garden globally and joined the register of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International in 1994.

Utopia Orchid Park

Located in Kibbutz Bachan, Utopia Orchid Park is a biological garden that showcases over 20,000 orchids, some of which are rare species, in an indoor setting. The park also features tropical plants, carnivorous plants, and a variety of fauna, making it a unique destination for plant enthusiasts and families alike.

Ramat Hanadiv Gardens

Situated near Zikhron Ya'akov, Ramat Hanadiv is a memorial garden dedicated to Baron Edmond de Rothschild. The gardens are renowned for their beautifully landscaped areas, including the Rose Garden, Palm Garden, and Fragrance Garden designed for the visually impaired. The site also engages in ecological research and conservation projects, contributing to the preservation of native Israeli flora.