Hortus Botanicus Leiden is the botanical garden of Leiden University, on the Rapenburg canal in the centre of the city. Founded in 1590, it is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in the world. The collection includes more than 10,000 plant species, from tropical greenhouses with palms and carnivorous plants to cacti, a Chinese garden and a Japanese garden. Go in spring to see the outdoor beds at their fullest, and allow an hour or two among the glasshouses and paths.
Origins and the tulip story
The garden began as the study garden of Leiden University in 1590. In its early years it was used mainly to study medicinal plants.
Carolus Clusius is the figure most closely tied to the garden's first decades. He is credited with bringing the tulip from Turkey to Europe, and the first large tulip collections in Europe were grown here. The first planting in the garden dates to 1594.
The Clusius garden
Behind the university building is a replica of the first systematic botanical garden, named after its founder, Clusius. It is a good stop if you want to see how the early garden was laid out.
A reconstruction of the first planting was added in 2009.
Greenhouses and collections
The glasshouses hold tropical plants from many regions, including palms, cacti, succulents and orchids. The carnivorous plant collection is one of the highlights. The garden also keeps several endangered species.
Each greenhouse has its own climate and its own group of plants, so a walk through the glasshouses covers a wide range of growing conditions.
Outdoor gardens
Outside, the garden is divided into themed areas. These include a Chinese garden, a Japanese garden, a Chinese herb garden, a fern garden and a rose garden.
The garden has a memorial area for Philipp Franz von Siebold, who sent plants from Japan and China to Europe. Giant water lilies grow in the ponds.
Planning a visit
The garden has a café and a shop with a wide selection of souvenirs. Restrooms are on site, and the entrance, seating and restroom are wheelchair accessible.
Some plants have information boards written for children, so the garden suits families. Cats live on the grounds, so keep an eye out for them along the paths.
Nearby on the Rapenburg
The garden sits on the Rapenburg, one of Leiden's canals. The Pieterskerk and the old Leiden Observatory are a short walk away, so the garden fits well into a walk through the historic centre.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is free with a museum card. Otherwise a small fee applies, and the garden recommends buying tickets in advance.
How long do you need?
Plan one to two hours. The paths and benches make it easy to take a slower visit.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring, especially April and May, is when the outdoor displays look best. Winter displays are quieter.
Is the garden accessible?
The entrance, seating and restroom are wheelchair accessible. The garden is also good for children.
