The three domed greenhouses are constructed from aluminum frames and acrylic glass, designed to maximize natural light penetration.
The garden contains a specific area dedicated to medicinal plants used in historical and modern pharmacology.
The outdoor area features a 'boreal' forest section that mimics northern temperate climates.
It serves as a primary gene bank for local Swiss flora preservation.
The layout of the outdoor gardens is designed to mimic the natural evolutionary relationships of plant families.
The garden maintains a specialized collection of succulent plants from the dry regions of Africa and the Americas.
The Botanical Garden of the University of Zurich is distinguished by its three distinctive spherical domed greenhouses, designed by architect Hans Ulrich Huber. It houses approximately 7,000 plant species from diverse climatic zones, including tropical, subtropical, and savanna regions. The facility functions as a research and teaching site for the University of Zurich while serving as a public recreational space. The outdoor grounds are organized by geographical and ecological themes, including a pond system and systematic beds. The site relocated to the Zollikerstrasse area in 1977 to accommodate expanded research needs. It emphasizes the conservation of endangered species through specialized cultivation programs. Visitors can observe rare plants from the Mediterranean, high-altitude alpine regions, and Madagascar.
The exterior pathways between the three iconic glass domes, capturing their curvature against the sky.
Visit the greenhouses during overcast or cooler days to appreciate the distinct microclimates without heat exhaustion.
Bring a notebook to identify plants using the clearly marked scientific and common names on the display tags.
Allocate extra time for the outdoor ponds, which host seasonal blooms and aquatic wildlife.
Do not mistake the University of Zurich's main campus buildings for the botanical garden; this is a standalone facility.
Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays.
Do not pick plants, seeds, or fruits. Stay on designated paths to protect experimental beds.
