The Jardin des Plantes of Nantes was designed in its current form in the 19th century, in the city center, near the train station.
Holder of the chair of botany, appointed by the town hall, Dr Jean-Marie Ecorchard (1809-1882) was the major architect. Previously, an Apothecaries' garden had been created in 1687 but this space was not dedicated to walking.
Today's Jardin des Plantes, on the other hand, vast 7 hectares, delights the public in search of bucolic tranquility as well as botanical enthusiasts. There are some 10,000 living species there and every year, 50,000 flowers are planted there.
The site also includes 800 m² of greenhouses. Labeled Remarkable Garden, it has a collection of camellias unique in France. The establishment is also renowned for initiating the reintroduction of rare species. This was the case with the sylvan tulip, which disappeared in the 1970s and reintroduced in 2010 in the vineyards of the region thanks to the action of the Jardin des Plantes. Visitors can also admire remarkable varieties: Hectot magnolia, Virginia tulip tree, Wollemi pine...
Statues line the paths and play areas are set up for young children.
So-called exhibition greenhouses allow you to discover tropical plants.
Open daily. Free or guided visit. Information on +33 2 40 41 65 09.
