Singapore Botanic Gardens
Ethnobotanical Oasis by Eco Lake
A Living Tribute to Traditional Plant Wisdom
The Ethnobotanical Oasis, nestled alongside Eco Lake, is a vibrant showcase of over 300 plant species deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of the Malay Archipelago, Indochina, and South Asia. This unique sanctuary consists of both an outdoor garden and a dedicated Centre for Ethnobotany. The outdoor garden is thoughtfully divided into four distinct zones – Living, Craft and Construction, Symbolism, and Medicinal – all surrounding a serene water feature. Here, visitors can embark on an educational journey to discover the rich tapestry of traditional plant usage by indigenous communities in this region.
National Orchid Garden
Since 1859, orchids have shared a deep-rooted connection with the Gardens. The inception of the Gardens' orchid breeding program in 1928 paved the way for a magnificent showcase, truly deserving of their exquisite beauty. One might even describe the design of these orchids as meticulously handcrafted, a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Gardens' horticultural team, committed to accentuating the finest qualities of each hybrid.
With an impressive collection of over 1000 species and 2000 hybrids proudly on display, the National Orchid Garden offers a breathtaking spectacle, allowing visitors to revel in the sheer splendor of these captivating blooms.
Opening hours
8.30am - 7.00pm daily (last ticket sales and entry at 6.00pm)
Jacob Ballas Children's Garden
At the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, we've cultivated a haven dedicated to children, making it the first of its kind in Asia. Our overarching theme, 'Life on Earth Depends on Plants,' serves as a cornerstone for educating and nurturing a profound love for the natural world among young minds.
Within this sanctuary, children encounter a comprehensive nature-based learning environment, one where they can delve deeply into the intricate ecology of plants and our surroundings through immersive, hands-on experiences.
Here, the Garden unfolds as an inviting realm for exploration, adventure, and play. It boasts a farm, an orchard, and a thriving forest, complete with its meandering stream and inviting ponds.
Young adventurers are enticed by our suspension bridge and nature play zones, while budding naturalists can amble alongside the serene stream and ascend into the enchanting tree-houses. For the urban gardeners among us, there's ample opportunity to observe the wonders of plant growth and glean valuable gardening insights.
Whichever role you choose—be it an 'Adventurer,' 'Gardener,' or 'Naturalist'—a day at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden promises carefully curated trails that will lead you on a captivating journey of discovery and delight.
The Gallop Extension
The Gallop Extension encompasses 8 hectares of land, expanding the Singapore Botanic Gardens' total area to 82 hectares. It features two meticulously restored buildings transformed into the Botanical Art Gallery and the Forest Discovery Centre @ OCBC Arboretum, along with the COMO Adventure Grove, Mingxin Rambler's Ridge, and OCBC Arboretum.
Connecting the ridgetop forest habitats of Mingxin Foundation Rambler's Ridge to the Learning Forest, the HPL Canopy Link extends from the Gallop Extension, gracefully traversing Tyersall Avenue.
On the HPL Canopy Link, visitors can intimately experience a diverse array of species characteristic of lowland deciduous forests. These forests are prevalent in Continental Southeast Asia, encompassing countries like Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Some of these distinctive species include Yang Na (Dipterocarpus alatus), Malayan Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia floribunda), and the impressive Lan Palm (Corpha lecomtei).
Ginger Garden
The Ginger Garden boasts an impressive collection of over 250 species hailing from the Zingiberaceae family and related botanical lineages, delighting visitors with its diverse range of gingers, each characterized by uniquely striking leaves and enchanting flowers. This one-hectare haven also offers a picturesque stroll behind a cascading waterfall, a captivating nighttime ambiance illuminated with romantic lighting, and a pool adorned with magnificent Amazon water lilies, all of which have made it a beloved destination among guests. To enhance the experience, the garden has thoughtfully organized its gingers into distinct zones based on their geographic origins, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate these remarkable plants in their various forms.
