Greifswald Botanic Garden and Arboretum

In the charming city of Greifswald, nestled in the northeastern part of Germany, lies a hidden gem of botanical wonder – the Greifswald Botanic Garden and Arboretum. Known locally as Botanischer Garten und Arboretum der Universität Greifswald, this verdant haven is not just a feast for the eyes but a sanctuary for plant enthusiasts, researchers, and casual visitors alike.

A Stroll Through History

The origins of the Greifswald Botanic Garden date back to 1763, when it was initially established as a medicinal plant garden near the university's main building. Over time, its purpose evolved from serving purely medicinal needs to becoming a hub for academic research, thus earning the name hortus academicus. As the university expanded, the garden found itself constrained within the growing urban landscape. This led to the creation of a new, more spacious garden in 1886, designed by Julius Münter, located in the Fettenvorstadt area. Spanning two hectares, this new site included greenhouses and offered ample space for a diverse collection of flora.

In 1934, recognizing the need for a dedicated space for woody plants, the arboretum was established about two kilometers southeast of the main garden, near Berthold-Beitz-Platz. Despite plans to consolidate both sites, they remain separate to this day, each offering unique experiences and collections.

The Greenhouse Complex

The historic greenhouses, constructed in 1885, are a highlight of the Greifswald Botanic Garden. These structures, located on Münterstraße, are not only architecturally significant but also house an impressive array of plant species. The Palm House, with its warm and cool sections, is particularly noteworthy and holds a special place of national importance due to its rarity. However, time and the humid climate took their toll on the greenhouses, necessitating extensive renovations. After a significant restoration effort, which included crowdfunding campaigns, the greenhouses reopened in June 2022, much to the delight of the public and researchers.

Exploring the Plant Collections

The Greifswald Botanic Garden and Arboretum is meticulously organized to showcase plants based on geographical and ecological criteria. This thoughtful arrangement allows visitors to embark on a botanical journey around the world without leaving the garden.

Showhouses

The showhouses are a must-visit, each dedicated to a specific type of plant:

• Palm House: A tropical paradise showcasing a variety of palm species.
• Tropical House: Home to an array of exotic tropical plants.
• Cycad House: Featuring ancient cycads, often referred to as living fossils.
• Useful Plants House: Highlighting plants with economic and medicinal importance.
• Water Plants House: Dedicated to aquatic plants, including stunning water lilies.
• Show House: A rotating display of seasonal and thematic plant collections.
• Fern House: A lush, green haven for fern enthusiasts.
• Succulent House: Showcasing resilient and fascinating succulent species.

Outdoor Areas of the Botanic Garden

The outdoor areas are equally captivating, with sections dedicated to various plant types and habitats:

• Evergreen Shrubs: A collection of hardy, year-round greenery.
• Outdoor Trees and Shrubs: Featuring a diverse range of woody plants.
• Spring Flowering Plants: A burst of color heralding the arrival of spring.
• Cultivated Plant Garden: Showcasing domesticated plant varieties.
• Spice and Medicinal Plant Garden: A sensory delight with aromatic and healing plants.
• Alpine Garden: A miniature mountain landscape with alpine flora.
• Paludarium: An intriguing wetland habitat.
• Perennial Border: A vibrant display of perennial plants.

Outdoor Areas of the Arboretum

The arboretum, with its diverse collection of trees and shrubs, is divided into sections representing different regions of the world:

• Horticultural Varieties: Showcasing cultivated forms of woody plants.
• Asia: Featuring plants native to the vast and diverse Asian continent.
• America: Highlighting the rich flora of North and South America.
• Southern Europe and Southwest Asia: A collection of plants from these warm regions.
• Northern and Central Europe: Showcasing the hardy plants of these temperate areas.
• Rhododendron: A spectacular display of these beloved flowering shrubs.
• Heath and Cultural Landscape Garden: Featuring plants typical of heathlands and cultural landscapes.
• Alpine, Pre-Alpine, Cedars, Pond: A diverse section with alpine plants, majestic cedars, and a serene pond.

Research and Education

The Greifswald Botanic Garden and Arboretum is not just a place of beauty but also a center for scientific research and education. Operated by the University of Greifswald, it serves as a living laboratory for the Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology. Researchers and students engage in various projects, particularly in experimental plant ecology, contributing to our understanding of plant sciences and conservation.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're a passionate botanist, a casual nature lover, or a family looking for a serene outing, the Greifswald Botanic Garden and Arboretum offers something for everyone. Wander through the meticulously curated collections, enjoy the tranquility of the green spaces, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of plant life from around the globe. This botanical haven is a testament to the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom, and a visit here is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.