Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden

The Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden located in the historical center of Stellenbosch is the oldest university botanical garden in South Africa. The Garden is relatively small and houses an enormous diversity of plants, both indigenous to South Africa and introduced species. It is open to the public.HistoryThe history of the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden dates back to 1902 when lecturer Augusta Vera Duthie grew plants next to the then Main Building on campus for research and student practicals. The Botanical Garden's current site dates back to 1922 when Gert Cornelius Nel, professor of botany at the time convinced the University Council to allocate land for the establishment of the Garden. Hans Herre was appointed as the first curator of the Garden in 1925. Curators of the botanical garden have included Hans Herre (1925–1962), Wim Tijmens (1962–1999), Deon Kotze (1999–2012) and Martin Smit (2013–).Key functions and activitiesThe Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden fulfills many function within the university and the local community. The garden supports research and also in the training of students within the Stellenbosch University. The local community and other visitors also utilize the garden for both relaxation and education.Some facilities in the garden include: the BioBou Shop, which functions as a visitor center but also sells various books, seeds and local plant products; A small specialist nursery and the Katjiepiering Restaurant. A converted old recording/radio studio is also utilized for exhibitions, functions and meetings. The garden itself is also regularly utilized for sculpture exhibitions.