Tenerife isn’t really known for its wildlife, particularly in the arid weather found in the south of the island, but the lush green north has botanical gardens that make it stand out.
The botanical gardens of Puerto de la Cruz or Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava are home to a very pretty array of plants from the four corners of the globe.
The gardens were created in 1778 after tropical plants set for the Spanish mainland took root while being acclimatised on the island. Today it is still a sanctuary for plants from around the world and is open to the public all year round. The sub-tropical climate of north Tenerife has the perfect conditions for the plants to thrive in 20,000 square metres of grounds.
Work is being carried out to double them in size to make room for even more examples of nature’s spectacle.
Inside Tenerife’s botanical gardens
The gardens have many types of unusual looking tropical flowers and plants. Some look like they are from another world, but each have a unique beauty.
Puerto de la Cruz’s botanical gardens are also home to more familiar blooms such as hibiscus, lilies and amaryllis.
The water gardens were opened in 1795 and are home to koi carp, terrapins and giant water lillies.
The gardens offer a chance to see all stages of plant life cycles from tiny seeds to 200-year-old trees.
The gardens have chosen plants from all over the world including countries as far away as Sudan, Brazil and Japan.
What do you think of the botanical gardens? Which plants do you like the most?
Jperot says
This is an absolutely beautiful place to visit.
USystem says
Those are some really great pictures, you were really successful in capturing the ambience in each picture. Almost makes me want to get up and take a trip to Tenerife.