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Botanic Garden of Saint Petersburg State Forestry University

4.6 · 3,554 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Botanic Garden of Saint Petersburg State Forestry University, Institutskiy Pereulok, 5, St Petersburg, Russia, 194021
Interesting facts
1

The garden was originally established in 1827 under the direction of the Forestry Institute.

2

It houses one of the oldest collections of larch trees in the Saint Petersburg region.

3

The garden contains rare specimens of Siberian fir and Manchurian walnut that were planted over a century ago.

4

The layout incorporates the historical English-style landscaping popular in the mid-19th century.

5

The site includes a significant collection of medicinal plants historically used for educational demonstrations.

6

The grounds provide a habitat for numerous bird species, serving as an unofficial birdwatching site in the urban center.

7

Several of the garden's older trees have been officially designated as protected natural heritage objects.

8

The arboretum collection includes over 100 species of trees and shrubs from diverse geographical regions.

Overview

The Botanic Garden of Saint Petersburg State Forestry University is a historic arboretum originally established in the early 19th century as a teaching landscape. It spans approximately 50 hectares and contains a diverse collection of temperate and boreal tree species. The grounds function as an outdoor laboratory for the university, featuring native Russian flora alongside exotic specimens introduced for research. Visitors follow winding paths through varied planting zones that transition from formal alleys to dense, forest-like clusters. The garden is maintained by the Saint Petersburg State Forestry University, the oldest forestry higher education institution in Russia. The site serves as both a botanical study center and a public green space located in the Vyborgsky District. Its landscape design reflects historical gardening traditions of the imperial era. The area remains a quiet academic enclosure rather than a highly commercialized city park.

Photo spot

The central alley lined with mature deciduous trees during the peak of autumn color.

Insider tips

Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as the densely wooded sections can be prone to mosquitoes.

Stick to the established gravel and dirt paths to avoid damaging experimental planting beds.

Carry a bottle of water, as there are no food or drink vendors inside the garden gates.

What to avoid

Do not wander into the active university research laboratories or restricted greenhouse sections.

Good to know

The gardens remain accessible year-round, though paths may be snow-covered and difficult to navigate during deep winter months.

Etiquette

Stay on marked paths; do not collect seeds, cones, or plant specimens; refrain from cycling or picnicking in research areas.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for blooming crabapples or early autumn for intense foliage color shifts.
Address
Botanic Garden of Saint Petersburg State Forestry University, Institutskiy Pereulok, 5, St Petersburg, Russia, 194021
59.992, 30.343
Get directions
Details
Botanical diversityArboretum with rare temperate and boreal tree species
Landscape styleEnglish-style historical garden

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for blooming crabapples or early autumn for intense foliage color shifts..

The central alley lined with mature deciduous trees during the peak of autumn color.

Close by you'll find Botanical Gardens of Peter the Great, Cruiser Aurora, Peter and Paul Fortress.