SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS Characterized by neat lawns , rolling hills , lakes and a tropical blaze of color , this green expanse ’ s highlights include a rainforest and a vast orchid garden with more than 1,000 species of the waxy plant . The park is popular with joggers pounding its paths and early risers practicing tai chi .
KIRSTENBOSCH NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN , CAPE TOWN Set against the dramatic slopes of Table Mountain , Kirstenbosch lies within a nature reserve that blends into the forests and mountain ecosystem above . Spotted eagle-owls roost in trees , flowerbeds are patrolled by iridescent sunbirds and hiking trails suit walkers of all abilities .
ADELAIDE BOTANIC GARDENS Botanical treats await visitors here : the Museum of Economic Botany explores the relationship between people and plants ; tropical flora from Australia thrives in the indoor rainforest ; and a pavilion houses the world ’ s largest Amazon waterlily . Wander along majestic avenues , relax in the shade of trees and soak up the peace . top north american botanical Gardens
DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN , PHOENIX
Saguaro cacti and Mexican gold poppies are among the showstoppers in a garden dedicated to the abundant flora of desert environments . Five thematic trails here are set against the red rocks of the Sonoran Desert .
UNITED STATES BOTANIC GARDEN , WASHINGTON DC
A ‘ living plant museum ’, this stately garden atop Capitol Hill was conceived by Founding Father George Washington . Showcasing ecosystems from around the world , it highlights how plants contribute to a sustainable planet .
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS , ONTARIO
Located in Hamilton , the sprawling RBG is Canada ’ s largest botanical garden . There are four formal gardens , including 400 acres of display gardens , an arboretum and nature sanctuaries . images : getty ; AWL IMAGES
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS , KEW , LONDON Home to the world ’ s most biodiverse collection of living plants , Kew is unmissable . Stroll along the Treetop Walkway for a closer look at the Arboretum ’ s 14,000 trees , linger in a Japanese landscape or wildflower-filled woodland , and see weird and wonderful carnivorous plants .
MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN
With a mission to ‘ preserve and enrich life ’, this garden oasis in St . Louis is a center for research and education . The walled Ottoman Garden and butterfly meadow are peaceful pleasures .
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