Tired of the ordinary? Then prepare to be amazed by the Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich. This garden is not your typical floral display. It is a world of water-storing wonders.
The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is one of the world’s most important collections of succulents. Since 1931 this collection has thrived. It showcases nature’s ingenuity in plant form.
Here at the Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich, you will discover around 50% of all known succulent plant species. These plants have adapted to survive in harsh environments. They store water in their stems leaves and roots.
The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich boasts over 6500 different types of succulent plants. These represent more than 80 plant families. Agaves, Aloes, cacti and thick-leaf plants are all on display here.
Imagine Jakob Gasser trying to sell his collection to the city in the late 1920s. He failed initially. Then Julius Brann stepped in. This store owner gifted the collection to Zurich. That is how the Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich was born.
The main complex was built in 1947. It was expanded several times over the years. Today the Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich spans 4750 square meters. This includes six greenhouses.
The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich also houses a botanical library. It contains over 30000 titles. You cannot borrow them. But you can explore them when the collection is open.
The herbarium was founded in 1950. It holds about 20000 plant specimens. A meticulous database tracks them. It is under the patronage of the Swiss UNESCO commission.
The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich faced a threat in 1996. The city council considered outsourcing or closing it. This led to the creation of a support association. The council suspended its motion.
Admission is free. The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is open daily from 9am to 4:30pm. It offers a unique experience any time of year.
Located on Mythenquai, the Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is easily accessible. Take bus 161 or 165 to the Sukkulenten-Sammlung stop. Or take tram 7 to Brunaustrasse. From there it is a five-minute walk.
The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is more than just a garden. It is a living library a research center and a cultural treasure. Its collection is of national importance. The Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich is a testament to the power of adaptation and the beauty of the natural world.