Australian National Botanic Gardens
Australian Capital Territory
Located on the northeastern slopes of Black Mountain in Canberra, the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG) is the largest living collection of native Australian plants. Established in 1949 and officially opened in 1970, the Gardens serve as a center for botanical research, conservation, and education. The ANBG features more than 5,500 species arranged in thematic sections reflecting taxonomy and natural ecological groupings, such as the Rainforest Gully, Rock Garden, Sydney Region Flora, and the Eucalypt Lawn with about one-fifth of Australia's eucalypt species. The Gardens maintain rare and endangered species, ensuring their preservation through cultivation. Visitors can enjoy a network of paths traversing diverse habitats, including dry sclerophyll woodlands and planted rainforest gullies, while over 100 native and exotic bird species have been recorded onsite. The site also includes a newly added Banksia garden, showcasing species from across mainland Australia and Tasmania. The ANBG is a vital resource for scientific research and a popular destination for recreation and learning about Australia's unique flora.
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Tip: Visit during spring and autumn for the best plant displays and comfortable weather. Booking guided tours or special events, such as the First Nations Cultural Walks or Heritage Week tours, in advance is recommended. The Gardens offer discounts for students and seniors. Check the official website for seasonal events and educational programs to enhance your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The ANBG holds the largest living collection of native Australian flora worldwide.
- •Over 5,500 plant species are cultivated in the Gardens, representing diverse Australian ecosystems.
- •More than 100 native and exotic bird species have been recorded within the Gardens.
- •The Gardens include a unique Rainforest Gully representing eastern Australian rainforest species arranged by geographic origin.
- •The herbarium code for the ANBG is CANB, used internationally for botanical research.
History
The Australian National Botanic Gardens were recommended in a 1933 report during Canberra's planning and formally established in 1949 with the ceremonial planting by Prime Minister Ben Chifley and Sir Edward Salisbury.
Development progressed over the following decades, culminating in the official opening in 1970 by Prime Minister John Gorton.
The Gardens were added to the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004.
In 2020, the Gardens celebrated their 50th anniversary by opening a new Banksia garden.
The site originally set aside on Black Mountain covers 90 hectares, with 40 hectares currently developed as the Gardens.
Place Guide
Rainforest Gully
A themed area representing the rainforests of Eastern Australia, with plant species arranged from Tasmania at the lower gully to Queensland at the upper end, showcasing ecological succession.
Rock Garden
Displays plants adapted to habitats ranging from deserts to alpine regions, illustrating the diversity of Australian flora in harsh environments.
Sydney Region Flora
Showcases the unique flora endemic to the sandstone formations of the Sydney basin, highlighting regional biodiversity.
Eucalypt Lawn
Features about one-fifth of Australia's eucalypt species, providing a comprehensive overview of this iconic genus.
Banksia Garden2020
A recently added garden featuring over 170 Banksia species native to mainland Australia and Tasmania, celebrating the Gardens' 50th anniversary.
Aboriginal Trail
A nature trail highlighting the cultural connections and traditional uses of native plants by Indigenous Australians.
Contact
Phone: (02) 6250 9540
