Christchurch Botanic Gardens map [PDF 703KB]
Annual Bedding Display
Formal and spectacular spring and summer bedding displays have been a feature of the Armstrong Lawn since the late 19th century when such displays were at their height in landscape fashion during the Victorian era.
Annual plants represent a significant group which complete their life cycle within one year. Biennials, herbaceous perennials and standardised shrubs are also used in the displays providing additional colour, height, form, texture and scent.
Azalea and Magnolia Garden
North of the water garden and nestled beneath the semi-shade of oaks and birches is the Azalea Garden.
In addition to the azaleas and equally well established, it has a large collection of magnolias.
Central Rose Garden
The Central Rose Garden has a formal design. It is ideally situated, having a sunny, sheltered site away from large trees. This garden contains cultivars and hybrids of modern garden roses including bush, climbing, standard and miniature roses.
The original Rose Garden was established in 1909. At that time it was considered the largest and finest in Australasia. Rectangular in shape, the design was based on the rose garden owned by the Duchess of Sutherland in Herefordshire, England.
Rose Garden pamphlet [PDF 178KB]
Fragrant Garden
Nestled comfortably on the southwest aspect of the conservatory complex, this area of the Gardens gets good protection from prevailing winds. It was established in 1990 as a sesquicentennial year project with significant financial support from Canterbury women’s organisations.
As a garden developed around the sense of smell, it is a special place for those with impaired vision. The layout recognises this and a series of wide paths, raised planters and structures for climbers offer safe, easy access while providing excellent conditions for a wide range of fragrant trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs.
Herbaceous Border
The Herbaceous Border was developed in the early 1920s. It is said to be the longest herbaceous border in a public garden in the Southern Hemisphere.
This extensive collection was developed for its range of colour and texture showing the mass effect of herbaceous perennials suited to a Canterbury garden. It is best seen from December through to February when the border is in prime condition.
Herb Garden
The Herb Garden was opened in 1987 and has a mature atmosphere. It has an extensive collection of annual, biennial and perennial herbs grown for a variety of uses.
Heritage Rose Garden
The Heritage Rose Garden has been an appealing part of the gardens since the early 1950s. It was remodelled in 1999 to provide for a larger collection of plants, together with structures for rose supports and seating areas from which to enjoy the displays.
It contains an extensive collection of modern, old garden and wild roses underplanted with herbaceous perennials providing an interesting display throughout November and December. These roses are noted for their plant form, scent and the multitude of colourful rose hips which are produced in autumn.
Rose Garden pamphlet [PDF 178KB]
New Zealand Plant Section
The New Zealand Plant Section was established at the present location during the early 1900s. Over several decades this garden has evolved into a fine collection of plants native to New Zealand.
In 1938, an addition was created as a memorial to Dr Leonard Cockayne (1855 - 1934) in honour of his comprehensive contribution to New Zealand's botany, horticulture, ecology and conservation.
Today these include numerous mature specimens predominantly from lowland forests.
New Zealand Plant Section pamphlet [PDF 608KB]
Primula Garden
The Primula Garden was developed in 1955 using a small stream as a centrepiece. Within the semi-shaded conditions provided by a selection of small trees and large shrubs, an extensive collection of primulas grow in association with groupings of a multitude of interesting, moisture loving, plants.
Rock and Erica Gardens
The Rock Garden was officially opened by Lord Galway in 1939 and is situated along the northern side of the harper lawn. Adjacent to a large lily pond, the garden was formed utilising volcanic rocks from the Port Hills. With a comprehensive range of plants, this garden is a year-round attraction.
Water Garden
The Water Garden is ideally situated, having a backdrop of mature trees and shrubs. These plantings provide the necessary shelter from wind, but are distant enough to prevent excessive shading and root competition. With a wide range of species, varieties and cultivars, there are suitable bog garden plants for almost any garden situation.
