The South China Botanical Garden (华南国家植物园), covering a total area of 333 hectares, is the second national botanical garden established in China. It is recognized as the oldest and largest botanical garden in China, with the most diverse collection of species, primarily focusing on South Asian tropical plants. Often referred to as the “Emerald of Southern China,” it is hailed as a “never-ending World Expo of Exotic Trees,” displaying plant species from all over the globe.
The botanical garden consists of two major sections: the Guangzhou area and the Zhaoqing Dinghushan area. The Guangzhou section includes an ex-situ conservation area open to the public and a scientific research zone. The Zhaoqing Dinghushan section, located in Guangdong, forms part of the Dinghushan National Nature Reserve, which also serves as an arboretum.
The garden’s history dates back to 1929 when botanist Chen Huanyong founded the Agricultural and Forestry Research Institute of National Sun Yat-sen University. In October 2003, it was renamed the South China Botanical Garden under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. As of July 2024, the garden has successfully conserved 1,027 species of rare and endangered plants, 514 of which are under national protection.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of South China Botanical Garden
- Vlog about South China Botanical Garden
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Admission: 20 RMB Admission + Greenhouse: 50 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 7.30 – 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-020-85232037 0086-020-37252711 |
Location and Transportation
The South China Botanical Garden is located at 1190 Tianyuan Road, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 30, 39, 83, 84A, 84, 345A, 346, 564, 775, or B12 and get off at the Main Entrance of Botanical Garden Stop (植物园正门站).
Metro: The closest metro station to the attraction is Botanical Garden (植物园) on line 6. After getting out of the station from Exit A, you will see the entrance right in front of you.
Highlights of South China Botanical Garden
Longdong Qilin
Longdong Qilin is a stunning area within the South China Botanical Garden, comprising two peninsulas – Palm Garden and the Relict Plant Zone – along with an artificial lake. On one side, visitors can explore a lush array of palm plants that remain vibrant throughout the seasons, while the other side features a captivating curve of bald cypress and water pine trees, creating a picturesque landscape. In 1986, Longdong Qilin was honored as one of the “Eight Scenic Spots of Yangcheng,” further enhancing its reputation as a must-visit attraction in Guangzhou.
Greenhouse Complex
The Greenhouse Complex of the South China Botanical Garden covers an impressive area of 75,000 square meters. This multifaceted zone integrates ex-situ plant conservation, scientific research, and public education, featuring approximately 3,500 plant species. It boasts a harmonious blend of ornamental beauty, scientific significance, and cultural depth, showcasing global plant ecological types. Recognized as one of Guangzhou’s iconic landmarks, this complex is not only one of the largest plant landscape greenhouses in Asia but also globally. It includes various themed areas such as the Tropical Rainforest Room, Strange Plant Room, Desert Plant Room, Alpine Plant Room, and outdoor rare tree savanna, offering visitors a diverse botanical experience.
Camellia Garden
Established in 1996, the Camellia Garden within the South China Botanical Garden spans approximately 60 acres and features a collection of over 300 species of camellia plants. The garden is divided into three main sections: the Camellia Flower Area, the Golden Camellia Area, and the Tea Camellia Area. From November to May, the Camellia Garden bursts into color as various species, including the red-flowered camellia, golden camellia, Vietnamese stem-hugging tea, and Guangning red camellia, bloom in succession. This vibrant display transforms the garden into one of the most striking winter landscapes, drawing visitors who come to appreciate the seasonal beauty of these exquisite plants.
