This garden, on the outskirts of Bloemfontein, spans a valley between picturesque dolerite koppies with the natural vegetation comprising tall grassland and woodland, dominated by magnificent wild olive and karee trees. Read about the history of the Garden. Recently a new restaurant and Visitors' Centre have been completed at the garden as has an Environmental Education Centre.

The garden covers 70 hectacres, and is home to about 400 species of plants, mainly from the Free State, Northern Cape and Lesotho, including a fine collection of decorative and hardy trees indigenous to the area.  See route map for directions to garden.

The harmony of the garden has been achieved by retaining and highlighting the best elements of the natural landcape. Lion's ear (Leonotis), red-hot poker (Kniphofia) and dwarf coral tree (Erythrina zeyheri) provide touches of colour against a restful woodland backdrop. A series of vistas leads one naturally through the garden, to the wooded koppies, up onto the rock outcrops that overlook the garden, and back down to the dam, to the bird hide, and the lawns.  Take a virtual tour of the Garden

From November to March, most of the plants in the garden are in full leaf and from March to June, the colourful autumn shades of yellow and red dominate.  Starting with spring, take a seasonal tour of the garden.

The natural areas of the garden are a haven for wildlife, including 124 species of birds, 54 species of reptiles and almost 50 species of mammals. 

Two demonstration gardens have been developed recently. One to display plants with medicinal properties and the other to demonstrate waterwise gardening principles.

Indigenous plants are on sale from Monday to Saturday and special plant sales are held annually, usually in September or October.  See our What's On page for details of other events taking place in the garden.

A well equiped lapa is available for private functions.