FULL GARDENS .com - Famous Botanical Gardens in Zimbabwe

Famous Botanical Gardens in Zimbabwe [Back]

Zimbabwe boasts a rich array of botanical gardens that serve as sanctuaries for native flora, centers for botanical research, and serene retreats for nature enthusiasts. These gardens reflect the country's commitment to preserving its diverse plant heritage and offer visitors unique insights into Zimbabwe's natural beauty. Here are some of the most notable botanical gardens in Zimbabwe:

National Botanic Garden of Zimbabwe

Located approximately 4 km north of Harare's city center in the suburb of Alexandra Park, the National Botanic Garden spans nearly 7 square kilometers. Initially established as a recreational area in 1902, it was designated as the National Botanic Gardens in 1962 under the direction of Dr. Hyram Wilder. The garden showcases over 750 species of indigenous plants from Zimbabwe's woodlands, as well as collections of plants from other African regions and exotic species from South America, India, Australia, and the Far East. It also houses the National Herbarium of Zimbabwe.

Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens

Situated in Harare, the Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens are renowned for their extensive collection of aloes, cycads, and succulents. The garden offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of drought-resistant plants in a beautifully landscaped setting.

Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve

Located in the Eastern Highlands near Mutare, the Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve encompass lush landscapes and diverse plant species. The gardens are part of a larger reserve that offers scenic views, walking trails, and a tranquil environment for visitors to connect with nature.

Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve

The Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve conserves mist-forest along the southern slopes of the Bvumba Mountains in the Eastern Highlands. Covering approximately 4.95 square kilometers, it is the largest conserved area in the Bvumba highlands and is accessible via the Burma Valley Road. The forest is home to a variety of plant species, including the predominant Syzygium guineense, and serves as a habitat for diverse fauna, making it a significant area for conservation and ecological studies.

Chirinda Forest Botanical Reserve

Situated on the slopes of Mount Selinda, 30 km south of Chipinge in the Chipinge Highlands of Manicaland, the Chirinda Forest Botanical Reserve covers 950 hectares. Established in 1951, it is the southernmost occurrence of moist evergreen forest in Africa. The reserve boasts a high diversity of plants, fungi, birds, butterflies, insects, and reptiles, including rare and endemic species. Notably, it is home to the "Big Tree," the largest red mahogany tree in southern Africa, estimated to be between 600 to 1,000 years old.