Free State National Botanical Garden

FFree State National Botanical Garden The Free State National Botanical Garden (FSNBG) is one of ten gardens managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) in South Africa, concentrating exclusively on cultivating and propagating South Africa's indigenous flora. The Garden is situated next to the N1, about 11 km north of the centre of Bloemfontein, the capital city of the Free State Province. It is within a 130 km radius of Kimberley, the Free State Goldfields, and Maseru, Lesotho. The garden The garden spans a valley between dolerite koppies (small hills) capped with rocky outcrops—typical of the area. It is divided into two main sections—the developed garden (6 ha) and the natural area (60 ha). The natural vegetation comprises grassland, woodland and fascinating Karoo plants. Succulents and bulbous plants form a natural garden amongst the rocks on the koppies and can be seen when walking the scenic nature trails in the Garden. The Garden has an abundance of wildlife, including over 140 bird species, 54 reptile species and about 32 mammal species, with over 300 plant species in the developed area. Lapa Have peace of mind, use our lapa. The lapa is used for social functions such as birthday parties, weddings and year-end functions, and many more. It is equipped with chairs and tables, a stove with oven, and a fridge. Restaurant The restaurant operates privately. Visitors can bring the whole family and enjoy good service from the restaurant, with a stunning view of the Garden. The kids can play on the lawns in front of the restaurant while you relax with a sundowner. Nursery South Africa has one of the richest and most beautiful floras in the world. We encourage the use of indigenous plants by making them available at competitive prices. This service is available daily. Plants are propagated here before being transplanted into the garden for display. Seeds are not for sale. A special plant sale is held annually, usually late September, with the full support of the Botanical Society of South Africa. Environmental Education To further the vision of environmental education for sustainable living, our programmes offer learners hands-on experience in the garden environment. Guided tours Guided tours for schools and other interest groups require prior arrangements with the Administration office, during working hours. Walking trails We encourage all visitors to walk the two beautiful Motshetshe and Garden View Trails, which will show you the beauty and diversity of our Free State plants. Features of special interest The medicinal plant garden displays traditional Basotho and Boer dwellings with medicinal plants. The water-wise demonstration garden illustrates the use of indigenous Free State plants to conserve water in domestic gardens. General information Open: 08:00–17:00 Adults: R20-00 Schoolchild / Senior Citizens: R14-00 Senior Citizens: Free on Wednesdays Preschool: R10-00 Admission fees change on an annual basis. Conference facilities, lapa and wedding garden available to rent for functions. Contact Information Physical address: Rayton Road, off Dan Pienaar Drive, R702, Bloemfontein Postal address: PO Box 29036, Danhof, Bloemfontein, 9310 GPS co-ordinates: 29°03'05.9

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