Bring Your Senses to Life At Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden

Protea Cynaroides--Photo from South African National Biodiversity website

Spanning across 528 hectares of manicured estate, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, South Africa, is home to a wide spectrum of indigenous South African plants and cultivated gardens. It’s setting against the tall slopes of Table Mountain is the perfect accent to an already stunning garden.

One of the best times to view the garden is during springtime–beginning in July–when bulbs and annuals burst to the surface. New life is present all around the garden–from busy insects to blooming proteas, and ericas to berry heath.

Delightful surprises are around every corner at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden . . .

* Peninsula Garden: Here, you’ll find over 2,500 species of indigenous flora species.

* Water-Wise Garden: This garden is comprised of a variety of plant species that lack constant attention and an abundance of water.

* Fragrance Garden: One of the most delightful gardens in Kirstenbosch, the Fragrance Garden is home to stunning flowers with sumptuous scents and beauty.

Proteaceae--photo from South African National Biodiversity website

* Medicinal Garden: Many cultures throughout South Africa use plants for medicinal purposes and this garden showcases these various types of plants and their interesting uses.

* The Dell: Filled with an eclectic array of ferns and other lush plants, the Dell is the oldest area of Kirstenbosch.

* The Protea Garden: The King Protea, South Africa’s national flower, is a prime focus in the Protea Garden. The best part to view this garden is during the winter and spring when the variety of protea species are in bloom.

* Restio Garden: Comprised of whistling reeds, the Restio Garden is teeming with a diverse mixture of reed species.

After a long day soaking in the rich scents, textures, and sights of the gardens, unwind at one of Kirstenbosch’s infamous summer sunset concerts. Held every Sunday starting December 27, 2009 to April 4, 2010, the summer sunset concerts are the perfect way to end an exceptional day. With an outdoor amphitheatre featuring rock, jazz, and big band music, it’s no wonder these concerts attract a whole variety of music lovers. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of wine and a picnic to share with friends and family as you watch the sunset behind the vibrant gardens.