Are you a plant enthusiast? Do you love exploring different types of flora and learning about their origins? Take a trip to the UC Botanical Garden and embark on a journey through the beautiful gardens of South America.
Spanning nearly two acres, the South America section of the garden features twenty-five beds filled with plants indigenous to South America. Venture through the mountain highlands of the Andes to the southernmost tip of Argentina and Chile, and discover the fascinating flora of this incredible continent.
The UC Botanical Garden has a rich history of supporting research and collection development. Several botanical expeditions were sponsored by the garden to the Andes between 1935 and 1964. Many of the plants collected during these expeditions form the basis of the South America section of the garden.
As you walk through the South America section, you'll marvel at the diversity of plants that call this continent home. One of the highlights is the Chilean Wine Palm (Jubaea chilensis), which is indigenous to central Chile. This palm is one of the tallest species in the world, reaching up to 80 feet in height. Other plants that are sure to catch your eye include the Brazilian Coral Tree (Erythrina speciosa), which boasts brilliant red flowers, and the Giant Bromeliad (Puya mirabilis), which produces stunning blue flowers.
The South America puzzle that the UC Botanical Garden presents is fascinating for anyone who loves plants. Take a walk through the gardens and see how many plants you can identify from different regions of South America. It's a great challenge for those who love to test their plant knowledge.
The beauty of the South America section of the garden is that it's not just a place to admire plants; it's also a place to learn about them. The garden offers various educational programs for all ages, including guided tours, workshops, and classes. You can learn about the different plant families, their medicinal properties, and how they have been used throughout history.
Overall, the South America section of the UC Botanical Garden is a must-see for any plant enthusiast. Take your time exploring the gardens and learning about the diverse flora of this incredible continent. And don't forget to try your hand at the South America puzzle while you're there!