Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden

Keen to unearth exclusive details about Southern Africa’s native flora? Then, the University of Pretoria’s Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden is the place to go. It is a captivating 3.5-hectare space designed to share incredible discoveries about the region’s indigenous species with its visitors.

Steeped in history, the garden’s origins go back to 1924 when you would have seen Pavetta varieties planted on the campus. Nowadays, among the extensive collection, you can see everything from tranquil Cherry Blossom to stunning Magnolias, and striking Camellias to exotic Cycads. In 1986, Prof. Manie van der Schijff – the person the Garden gets its name from – significantly shaped the garden into what you see today.

Wander among towering trees in the Arboretum, inhale the delicious scents of the Herb Garden and explore the enchanting Rock Garden. You can also browse the plant sales and join inspiring horticultural activities.

How long is a typical visit?

The average visitor spends 1 - 2 hours (Quarter Day) at Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden University of Pretoria.