| Singapore Botanic Gardens - A Timeless Tropical Eden |
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| en - Singapore Park, Garde & Nature Reserves |
| Written by Singapore Guide |
Singapore Botanic GardensSituated just five minutes away from bustling Orchard Road, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a lush sanctuary in the heart of the cityLocation: 1 Cluny Road The idea of a national garden in Singapore started in 1822 when Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of the first 'Botanical and Experimental Garden' at Fort Canning. This garden closed in 1829 and it was not until 30 years later that the Singapore Botanic Gardens at its present site was founded by an agri-horticultural society. This oasis of beauty and greenery was soon handed over to the Government. In the early years, the Singapore Botanic Gardens played an important role in fostering agricultural development in Singapore and the region through collecting, growing, experimenting and distributing potentially useful plants. One of the earliest and most important success was the introduction, experimentation and promotion of Para Rubber, Hevea brasiliensis, from 1877. This became a major crop that brought great prosperity to the South East Asian region. In the 1920s, the Gardens spearheaded orchid breeding and started its orchid hybridisation programme. In contemporary times, the Singapore Botanic Gardens also played a key role in Singapore's Garden City programme through the continual introduction of plants of horticultural and botanical interest. Today, the 63-hectare (155.7-acre) Gardens is home to a great diversity of tropical plants set in verdant landscapes. Here is a tropical Eden, rich with 150 years of history, where time seems to stand still. Be it a rejuvenating walk in solitude, a romantic rendezvous or a day with your family, the Gardens has plenty to offer. |