The garden contains a collection of more than 6,000 plant species from around the world.
It is home to a dedicated section focused on the evolutionary history of plants, detailing their lineage over millions of years.
The garden maintains a specialized conservation program specifically for rare plants found in the Vaudois Alps.
It was moved to its current location on Montriond hill in the mid-1940s to provide more space for expansion.
The onsite library holds thousands of botanical books and historical scientific journals.
The Lausanne Botanical Garden, known as the Jardin botanique cantonal, is located on the slope of the Montriond hill in the city of Lausanne. It features extensive collections of alpine, medicinal, and exotic plants arranged in thematic zones. The garden houses a significant herbarium containing over one million dried plant specimens. Its terraced design offers panoramic views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. The site includes a specific greenhouse dedicated to carnivorous plants and high-altitude flora. Established as a scientific research institution, it collaborates with the University of Lausanne. Visitors can explore the geological section showcasing minerals from the Swiss Alps. The grounds serve as a living museum for rare and endangered plant species native to the Vaud region.
The upper terrace near the rock garden, which frames the flowers with the lake and mountains in the background.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the garden is built on a sloped hillside with many stone paths.
Bring a water bottle, as the terraced layout involves significant walking in direct sun during summer months.
Check the official website for rotating botanical exhibits before visiting to time your trip with specific blooms.
Avoid visiting during heavy rain as the steep stone paths can become slippery.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
Do not pick flowers or walk on the flowerbeds; stay on marked paths to protect the scientific plant collections.
