Take 81 hectares of prime real estate just 6 kilometres from the Johannesburg CBD, build a 7.5 hectare dam, plant some 30 000 trees and 4 500 roses and what do you have? The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and the Emmarentia Dam, a favourite destination for canoeists, cyclists, joggers and dog walkers alike. Not to forget picnickers.
Back in 1886, a Mr. Louw Geldenhuys bought part of the historic Braamfontein farm and created the Dam named after his wife to be, Emmarentia. Upon his death, it was bequeathed to the City who used part of the land to develop some sports fields while the rest was left as indigenous grasslands. It was only in 1968 that the City Council agreed to develop the Botanical Gardens, a long time after they had gone out of fashion internationally.
The Rose Garden was terraced and planted with a wide variety of roses set amongst a number of ornate fountains. A herb garden is planted with many species that are used for both traditional medicinal, beauty and culinary purposes. In addition, a succulent garden has been developed over the years and now numbers over 2 500 plants, the most extensive on the continent.
The Gardens belong to a network of similar gardens around the world that exchange seeds each year and a number of the trees have been grown from these seeds. Some of these are quite rare and endangered in their native habitats.
Refreshments are available from a tea terrace while the arboretum hosts exhibitions eg the annual Orchid Exhibition and talks. It is also an ideal area to host events such as kite flying competitions as well as musical performances. It is a great family destination and conveniently located.
http://www.gauteng.net/attractions/entry/johannesburg_botanical_gardens_and_emmarentia_dam/
http://www.jhbcityparks.com/index.php/conservation-contents-95/botanical-gardens-contents-96
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