It represents practical and stunning landscape designs ideal to the Southern climate
Situated in the center of the city of Birmingham, Alabama, there is horticultural discovery that’s been around for almost two centuries. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens covers 67.5 acres of perfectly landscaped ground. It’s an oasis of thriving greenery and the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. A testament to preservation, the Botanical Gardens began in 1962. The site originally served a Red Mountain Park as a mining operation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city of Birmingham acquired the land in 1927 with the plan to create a public park. In the 1950s, that intention transformed into the ideas of a botanical garden. Today, the gardens continues to treat visitors to a stunning array of themed gardens and plant collections. Each is meticulously designed to inspire, delight and educate. One of the features is the Japanese Gardens, recreating traditional Japanese landscaping. There are koi-filled ponds, a tea house and charming bridges. Another favorite is the Rose Gardens where thousands of rose buses of various species and varieties bloom in vibrant colors. The fragrance is an experience. The Tropical House is a climate-controlled greenhouse showcasing exotic species of plants from around the world. The Fern Glade is a shaded walkway winding through lush ferns and an assortment of shade-loving plants. It’s a wonderfully cool escape from the heat and humidity of summer in Birmingham. The Southern Living Garden is a project that collaborate with Southern Living magazine. It represents practical and stunning landscape designs ideal to the Southern climate. For the seasoned horticulturist or anyone interested in the beauty of nature, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is an enjoyable and worthwhile destination.