The arboretum holds the national collection of Hamamelis (witch hazel) in Belgium.
The property was originally established as a nursery by Charles Van Geert in the mid-19th century.
The site features a heritage greenhouse built in the late 19th century.
Griet and Jelena de Belder were responsible for breeding numerous new cultivars of shrubs, including the famous 'Jelena' witch hazel.
The garden contains ancient specimens of Sequoia gigantea and other North American conifers planted during its early years.
Arboretum Kalmthout is a historic botanical garden established in 1856, renowned for its extensive collection of rare trees and shrubs. The site originated as a private estate before being developed into a scientific collection by the de Belder family. It contains over 7,000 different plant species spread across 13 hectares. The collection is particularly noted for its significant plantings of Hamamelis, which bloom during winter months. The grounds incorporate diverse landscape styles including woodland paths, water features, and manicured ornamental gardens. It serves as a center for plant research and conservation in the Antwerp province.
The central pond area framed by mature weeping trees and seasonal floral borders.
Check the seasonal bloom calendar on their website before visiting to time your trip for specific flowers.
Follow the designated walking paths to protect the sensitive root systems of the historic trees.
Visit the on-site garden shop, which stocks rare plants and botanical books unique to the collection.
Do not attempt to visit on a Monday, as the arboretum is closed to the public.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Stay on marked paths, refrain from picking flowers or climbing trees, and keep dogs on a short leash.
