Information
Landmark: Kutaisi Botanical GardenCity: Kutaisi
Country: Georgia
Continent: Asia
Kutaisi Botanical Garden, Kutaisi, Georgia, Asia
The Kutaisi Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located in Kutaisi, Georgia. It contains over 700 species of plants.
Visual Characteristics
The garden features a diverse collection of flora, including mature trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Pathways are constructed from gravel and stone. The garden is characterized by its varied terrain, with some areas featuring steeper inclines and others being relatively flat. Several water features, including small ponds and streams, are integrated into the landscape. Architectural elements include a historic oak tree and a small chapel.
Location & Access Logistics
The Kutaisi Botanical Garden is situated approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of Kutaisi's city center. Access is via Tamar Mepe Street. Limited on-street parking is available near the main entrance. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop within a 5-minute walk of the garden. The nearest major transport hub is Kutaisi I station, approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) away.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The garden was established in 1840 by Andrey Nikolaevich Krasnov, a Russian botanist. Its original purpose was to serve as a research and acclimatization center for various plant species. The site's ecological origin is a temperate deciduous forest biome, with the garden curated to showcase this biodiversity.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can walk the garden's pathways to observe the plant collections. Photography of specific plant species and garden vistas is possible. The central area features a notable ancient oak tree. Guided tours focusing on the plant collections are available upon request.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are located near the main entrance. Limited shaded areas are provided by mature tree canopies. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the garden. No on-site food vendors are present, but small cafes and shops are located on Tamar Mepe Street outside the garden perimeter.
Best Time to Visit
For optimal plant viewing, the months of April through October are recommended. Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) offers good natural light for photography. The garden is open year-round, but spring and early autumn provide the most visually dynamic plant displays.
Facts & Legends
A local legend states that the ancient oak tree within the garden is over 1,000 years old and possesses healing properties. While its exact age is unverified, it is a significant and well-preserved specimen.
Nearby Landmarks
- Bagrati Cathedral (1.5km West)
- Kutaisi State Historical Museum (2.2km West)
- Green Bazaar (2.0km West)
- David Agmashenebeli Square (2.1km West)