CHINESE PLANT SPECIES
On Sunday, August 10, the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens will host a FREE guided walking tour through the gardens, highlighting a remarkable collection of plant species originating from China.
China is home to one of the world’s oldest botanical traditions, with gardens dating back more than 3,000 years. Unlike Western botanical gardens, which often focus on scientific classification, Chinese gardens are deeply influenced by Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist philosophies, with plants chosen for their symbolism, beauty, and connection to nature.
A Rich Botanical Legacy
The world’s first known botanical garden was established in 138 BC by Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty. His imperial garden near Chang’an (modern-day Xi’an) featured artificial lakes, wildlife, and over 2,000 plant species, many grown in early hothouses. These gardens collected exotic and medicinal plants from across the empire and along the Silk Road. They served a purpose very similar to today’s botanical collections.
Familiar Faces from China
Many of the world’s most loved garden plants originated in China, including peonies, camellias, wisteria, ginkgo, and magnolias. These species have been cultivated for centuries and are now staples in gardens across the globe, thanks to their resilience, beauty, and rich cultural history.
About the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens
Established in 1985, the Friends of Geelong Botanic Gardens work to promote and preserve the gardens’ legacy. Their first project was the training of volunteer guides, passionate about sharing the garden’s history, rare plants, and the stories behind its development.
They also played a vital role in establishing the building where our cafe, Where You Meet, now operates. It was originally opened as the Teahouse by Friends volunteers.
Join the Tour
This guided tour is free and open to everyone - no bookings required. Simply meet your guide at the front gate at 2pm.
Front Gate - CNR Podbury Drive and Eastern Park Cct
Afterward, we’d love to hear all about your walk. Swing by the café and share what you discovered over a coffee or a slice of cake.