This Garden is situated 8 km from the centre of Pretoria and accommodates both subtropical and
temperate plants, giving the visitor a glimpse of the beautiful and varied flora of the subcontinent. This
Garden is also home to the National Herbarium, Mary Gunn Library and Bookshop, all housed in the
"Building on the Hill." Near the main entrance is the Visitors 'Centre and Mackaya Bella Gift Shop. The
garden was started in 1946 .

The Garden is 76 ha in size, with 50 ha under intensive cultivation using exclusively South African
plants. The cultivated area includes a cycad garden, succulent garden, aloe plantings and other
striking collections. The natural vegetation of the area consists of grassland and savanna with dense
bush. Over 600 species of flowering plants including half the country's tree species, many species
of birds, as well as a number of reptiles and small mammals occur here naturally. Paved nature
trails give access to the fascinating natural vegetation of the rocky ridge above the Garden.

Seasonal features which draw visitors include the spectacular display of spring flowers (Namaqualand
daisies and mesems) and the tree wisteria avenue. In summer visitors are drawn to the green lawns
and spreading shade trees, and in winter they enjoy the massed aloe collections in flower.

The Tea Garden - provides light refreshments whenever the Garden is open, except Mondays.