A haven of tranquility amidst the bustling university campus. That’s the Botanischer Garten Heidelberg. Established in 1593 it’s Germany’s third oldest botanical garden. Imagine a hortus medicus a garden of medicinal plants nestled near Heidelberg Castle. It wasn’t always here though. The garden moved seven times before finding its current home in 1915. Georg Albrecht Klebs and head gardener Erich Behnick created this oasis.
World War II inflicted severe damage. The entire greenhouse collection was lost including a renowned orchid collection. Yet the Botanischer Garten Heidelberg persevered. Under Werner Rauh’s directorship from 1960 to 1982 it flourished. He greatly expanded the plant collections. His expeditions brought back many specimens. These historic collections succulents xerophytes from Madagascar bromeliads and tropical orchids form the heart of the garden.
Today over 14000 plant taxa thrive within its walls. The greenhouse collections are spectacular. They cover 4000 square meters. The focus is on succulents orchids and bromeliads. Eleven special collections showcase the garden’s expertise. These include succulents from the Old and New Worlds tropical ferns and a diverse array of orchids.
Beyond the greenhouses outdoor sections enchant visitors. Explore a bog a heath an alpine garden a fern ravine and even a weedy vineyard. This is a living museum of plant life a testament to Heidelberg’s rich history and commitment to botanical research. Even the herbarium holds over 250000 specimens representing more than 50000 taxa.
The Botanischer Garten Heidelberg isn’t just a pretty place. It is actively involved in research and teaching. Plants support the university’s biological and pharmaceutical institutes. Studies on plant diversity are also conducted here. This garden is a vibrant blend of history scientific endeavor and natural beauty. A hidden gem waiting to be explored.