The Gardens are home to a wide variety of plants from around the world. Botanical Gardens in general make sure each plant has a value to the collections. Whether that value is for teaching, interpretation, conservation or just for aesthetics, each and every specimen is carefully chosen and carefully placed. You will find most plants labeled, telling visitors more about the plants they are enjoying. The label gives the common name, scientific name and a quick overview of the things the plant need for best growth and health. Consider the Botanical Gardens to be a showroom to help you select unusual plants for your own garden!

Bromeliads

An extensive Bromeliad garden may be found near the entrance to the Gulf Coast Museum of Art. Bromeliads are an interesting group of mainly epiphytic plants that live quite happily without roots, getting their water and nutrition by holding a reserve of rainwater in their vase-like leaves.

Palms

Palms are among the most economically important plants in the world, providing food, fiber, building materials and oils, among to help keep the world's economies running.

Sadly many palms are now endangered, being over-harvested or losing habitat. Take time to admire these beautiful and important trees.

Native Plants

One of the longest-established collections of plants here at the Gardens are the Native Plants. Here in the Gardens mature specimens of some of Florida’s best, yet least-known trees and perennials which can always be found with their attendant butterflies, birds and other critters. You will see native plants used in formal and informal plantings, and in re-vitalized ecosystems.

Several areas of the Gardens showcase native plants in particular. To explore this group, visit the Native Plant Demonstration Garden at the front of Welcome Center, the Aquatic Habitat Demonstration Area to the east of the Visitor Center, and the Natural Area, east of the Formal Gardens.

Herbs

The Herb Demonstration Garden a vast collection of plants with historical significance. Some of these fragrant treasures have been used for medicine, some as flavorings and some in magic and ritual!

Discover papyrus growing in the Egyptian Pool, find coffee beans as they grow before ending up in our mugs. As you walk these brick paths, take note of all the fragrances lingering in the air.