The Exotic Garden was originally commissioned in 1776 by Duke Carl Eugen to showcase rare plant species from around the world.
It remains one of the few surviving examples of an 18th-century landscaped exotic garden in Germany.
The garden maintains a specialized collection of plants used for teaching agricultural and horticultural students at the University of Hohenheim.
Some sections of the garden feature rare woody plants that were introduced to the region during the late 18th century.
The gardens are integrated into the grounds of the University of Hohenheim, which is housed in a former Baroque palace.
The Hohenheimer Gärten are a complex of botanical gardens affiliated with the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart. The grounds encompass approximately 35 hectares, blending historic landscape park features with scientific collections. Distinctive areas include the Exotic Garden, established by Duke Carl Eugen in the 18th century, and the modern botanical gardens housing systematic plant displays. The site functions as a research and teaching facility, maintaining extensive collections of woody plants, shrubs, and perennials. Visitors can explore various thematic sections, including rose gardens, rock gardens, and specialized horticultural displays. The park layout incorporates remnants of the English-style landscape garden created for the adjacent Hohenheim Palace. It serves as a vital green space for both academic study and public recreation. The site is characterized by rolling terrain and diverse plant habitats curated by the university. As of mid-2026, the gardens remain an active hub for plant conservation and botanical research in the Stuttgart region.
The central lawn area near the palace offers the most expansive view of the landscaped greenery.
Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the undulating paths between the botanical collections.
Check the university's official garden website before arrival for seasonal closures of specific display greenhouses.
Look for the informational signs near the plant beds, which provide details on the scientific classification of the species.
Do not collect plant samples or seeds, as these are part of active scientific research collections.
The outdoor garden areas are generally accessible throughout the year, though specific greenhouses may have restricted access during academic breaks.
Stay on marked gravel or paved paths to protect sensitive plant research beds.
