George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

Established in the 1870s to supplement the Darwin's unstable food supply, the 42 hectare George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens showcase the flora of northern Australia and other tropical habitats around the world.

The George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens were founded by Maurice Holtz, the first Government gardener, on the present site in 1886. Initially the gardens were established to introduce and evaluate plants for economic uses in the Northern Territory. The gardens now provide a window into the world of plants for enjoyment, scientific research, conservation and education.

Wander through monsoon forests, coastal fore-dunes, mangroves and open woodlands. See orchids, aroids, bromeliads and other striking foliage plants up close. There is a collection of about 400 species of palms and cycads, mostly in the rainforest gully which houses a waterfall and ponds, providing a setting for an established rainforest with an under story of palms, shade plants and bamboo. A self-guided walk devoted to Aboriginal plant use is a feature, explaining the traditional uses of local plants.

Since its establishment, the gardens have survived severe cyclones, major wildfires and World War II. The Wesleyan Church, formerly located on the corner of Mitchell and Knuckey Streets in the city, has been restored and relocated to the gardens.