The garden was originally established to provide medicinal plants for the pharmacy of the state and to train apothecaries.
Several trees within the garden, including specific larches and oaks, were allegedly planted during the reign of Peter the Great.
The garden contains a unique 'Victorian' style greenhouse complex that has been renovated to house rare exotic flora.
It holds the largest collection of orchids in Russia, which are displayed during a specific winter festival.
The garden operates as a permanent exhibition site for the Moscow State University Botanical Garden.
The Apothecary Garden (Aptekarsky Ogorod) is the oldest botanical garden in Russia, founded by Peter the Great in 1706 for the cultivation of medicinal herbs. It serves as the botanical branch of Moscow State University and occupies a central location on Prospekt Mira. The grounds feature historic greenhouse complexes, including the Palm Greenhouse which houses century-old cycads and tropical plants. Visitors can explore various specialized zones, such as the Heather Hill, the shade garden, and a collection of peonies and irises. The garden functions as both a scientific research site and a public recreational space. It preserves original landscape elements dating back to the 18th century, including ponds and ancient trees. Educational exhibitions and seasonal botanical festivals are held throughout the year. The site is enclosed by high walls that create an urban oasis separated from the surrounding traffic.
The central pond area with the reflection of the historic greenhouses and the surrounding weeping willows.
Check the official website's calendar before arrival to see if a specialized flower festival is currently active.
Walk the entire perimeter to view the distinct transition between the formal 18th-century garden layout and the newer landscape zones.
Bring a camera with a macro lens if visiting during the orchid or bulbous plant flowering seasons.
Visiting during peak weekend hours in late May if you prefer a quiet experience, as the tulip displays attract large crowds.
Stay on marked paths to protect rare plant specimens; picking flowers or damaging trees is strictly prohibited.
