Originally established as a medicinal herb garden to supply the military hospital with pharmaceutical plants.
The garden hosts several 'patriarch' trees that were planted in the 18th century, still surviving today.
It maintains one of the largest collections of orchids in Russia.
The garden is divided into distinct zones including a systematic sector, a dendrarium, and specialized greenhouses.
It serves as a primary site for the genetic preservation of flora indigenous to the Moscow region.
The MSU Botanical Garden, also known as the Apothecary Garden of Moscow State University, is one of the oldest botanical scientific institutions in Russia, founded in 1706 by Peter the Great. It functions primarily as a research and educational facility for the Faculty of Biology at Lomonosov Moscow State University. The grounds feature a significant collection of rare plants, including an arboretum, a rosarium, and historic greenhouse structures. The garden contains an extensive collection of temperate and tropical flora curated for both conservation and academic study. Its landscape design reflects centuries of botanical heritage and systematic planting patterns. The area serves as a living laboratory for ongoing experiments in botany, dendrology, and plant physiology. It remains an active site for researchers while providing a quiet green space within the university district.
The historic greenhouse facade and the central rosarium.
Bring a camera with macro capabilities, as the garden is renowned for its diverse floral displays.
Follow the marked pathways strictly to avoid disturbing sensitive experimental planting zones.
Visit the greenhouse complexes to see species that cannot survive the harsh Moscow winters outdoors.
Do not attempt to enter research-restricted zones or touch scientific equipment left in the beds.
Outdoor areas may have limited access during winter months due to snowfall; check for seasonal maintenance closures in early spring.
Walking on lawns is strictly prohibited; refrain from picking any flowers or plant specimens.
