Jerusalem Botanical Gardens

History and sites

The first horticultural collection connected to the university was begun in 1926 on the Mount Scopus campus. Political changes in the mid-20th century led to relocation and expansion: after the 1948 hostilities and the temporary loss of Mount Scopus, a new site was developed in Givat Ram and opened in 1954. Following the 1967 war the Mount Scopus gardens were reestablished and both sites came to coexist. The visitor centre is located at the Givat Ram campus, adjacent to the Nayot neighborhood. For background on institutional status see the gardens' official page.

Collections and layout

The gardens are arranged to reflect different plant communities and growing conditions. Displays typically include Mediterranean and regional native plants, arid and desert-adapted species, and themed living collections representing distant regions. Facilities often include greenhouses, an arboretum-like tree collection, demonstration beds and interpretive trails designed for visitors and students.

• Native and Mediterranean sections showcasing regional biodiversity.
• Climatic or geographic beds grouping plants by origin or ecological niche.
• Research and educational facilities that support university courses and fieldwork.
• Public amenities such as paths, signage and seasonal exhibitions.

Role and activities

As an institutional botanical garden the JBG supports conservation of plant diversity, horticultural research, teaching and outreach. Activities commonly include guided walks, school programs, plant identification workshops and collaborative projects with botanical networks. The gardens also serve as a living laboratory for students at the Mount Scopus and Givat Ram campuses, reflecting the horticultural and scientific mission of the university.

Notable context and access

Because the gardens occupy spaces on two university campuses — the historic Mount Scopus site and the Givat Ram site — visitors can experience different collections and landscapes. The gardens' development was shaped by regional history, including periods of restricted access after 1948 when Mount Scopus was under Jordanian control; later reopening reflected changing political circumstances. Visitor information, hours and special programs are available through the university and gardens' resources for those planning a visit to either campus (Mount Scopus, Givat Ram) or for historical context (Jordan).