Oslo Botanical Garden

Oslo Botanical Garden (Botanisk hage) is a university garden and arboretum in the Tøyen district, a short distance from the centre of Norway's capital. It was established in 1814 and is regarded as the oldest botanical garden in the country. It is run by the University of Oslo and has been part of the Natural History Museum since 1999.

How did the Tøyen garden begin?

The Tøyen estate had several earlier owners. In 1812 the Danish-Norwegian king handed it over to the university, and the botanical garden was laid out two years later. Only a small share of the old estate was set aside for the garden at first, and the grounds have been expanded since. Today the place serves both as a research collection and as a green park where locals and visitors stroll.

What is there to see in the garden?

The collection holds around 35,000 plants belonging to roughly 7,500 species. Plants from many climate zones are grouped thematically in separate sections of the garden. It is a good place to see how many species can be grown in a cool, northern climate.

The greenhouses are a major draw. The Palm House dates from 1868 and the Victoria House from 1876, and both hold exotic plants from distant parts of the world. The Palm House also contains an Evolution Room, which shows how plant species have changed over time. According to available information, entry to both greenhouses is free, and their opening hours broadly follow those of the garden itself.

Is there a museum or historic building on site?

Tøyen Manor stands in the grounds and is the oldest building owned by the university. Its main wing is probably the oldest wooden building in the wider Oslo area. Today it houses a café and temporary exhibitions. The garden also sits beside the Natural History Museum complex. The Botanical Museum, founded in 1863, was merged into the garden in 1975, and in 1999 the garden was combined with several museum institutes into a single institution.

Who is it for?

The garden suits a short, quiet walk between city sights, as well as a longer visit for anyone interested in botany. It works well for families with children, plant photographers and visitors who want to pair a garden stroll with a natural history museum. Tøyen lies east of the centre and can be reached on foot or by public transport.

Frequently asked questions

When was Oslo Botanical Garden founded? In 1814. It is the oldest botanical garden in Norway.

How many plants grow there? About 35,000 plants from around 7,500 species.

Is entry to the greenhouses paid? According to available information, the Palm House and Victoria House are free. Check current opening hours on the museum website before you go.

What else is in the grounds? The historic Tøyen Manor with a café and temporary exhibitions, plus the neighbouring Natural History Museum.

Who runs the garden? The University of Oslo, as part of the Natural History Museum.