Attractions

Darwin Botanic Gardens

The Darwin Botanic Gardens were founded by Maurice Holtze, the first Government Gardener, on the present site in 1886.

Initially the Gardens were established to introduce and evaluate plants for economic uses in the Northern Territory. The Gardens now provide a window into the world of plants for our enjoyment, scientific research, conservation and education.

Since its establishment the Botanic Gardens has survived severe cyclones, major wildfires, and the direct effects of World War II.

Access

The 42 ha of the Darwin Botanic Gardens are about 2 km north of the Darwin City Centre. Near the lower entrance off Gardens Road you can find the water fountain, floral displays, playground, barbecues and toilets. An alternative entry and car park is via Geranium Street, which leads to the Information Centre and Office.

What to See and Do

A network of paths connect the main features in the Gardens. It is advisable to wear a hat, sunscreen, suitable footwear and insect repellent.

• Plant Display House: Contains a collection of tropical orchids, ferns, bromeliads, other exotic plants and special seasonal displays.
• Suburban Gardens: Illustrates a variety of landscape designs and provides information on garden water consumption.
• Palms and Cycads: A collection of approximately 400 species have been planted. Most are located near or in the Rainforest Gully.
• Aboriginal Plant Use Trails: Several self guided walks brochures are available from the Information Centre.
• Rainforest Gully: Waterfall and ponds provide a setting for an established rainforest with an under storey of palms, shade plants and bamboo.
• Children's Evolutionary Playground: This award winning playground will lead you through the changes in plant groups through time, while you enjoy the visual blend of science and creative art.
• Native Top End Plants: Are planted throughout the Gardens, but particularly in areas such as the open woodland.
• Baobab Collection: You can see all the baobab species in the world in this collection.
• Mangroves And Coastal Plants: These are the basis of the Gardens' collections on the beach side of Gilruth Avenue. There are self guided walks in this area and a boardwalk, which forms part of a walking track to the Museum.
  

Opening Times

Facilities

The air-conditioned Information Centre has posters, booklets and literature for information and sale. It also has informative botanical displays, including one on mangrove communities.

The Gardens have special areas suitable for social functions such as barbecues, weddings and receptions.

Protect Your Botanic Gardens

• All plants and animals in the Gardens are protected.
• Dogs are to be on a lead at all times.
• Dispose of all litter properly
  

More Information

Parks & Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Head Office - Goyder Centre
25 Chung Wah Tce PALMERSTON NT 0830
PO Box 496 PAMERSTON NT 0831
Ph: (08) 8999 5511

Botanic Gardens Office
Ph: (08) 8981 1958
Fax: (08) 8981 1647