About Australian National Botanic Gardens
The Australian National Botanic Gardens is a 90-hectare living collection of Australian native plants on the lower slopes of Black Mountain in Acton, Canberra. Established to display, conserve and study Australia's flora, it cultivates over 63,000 plants representing about one-third of the nation's species. Notable for themed displays including the Rainforest Gully and Red Centre Garden, it functions as a national centre for botanical research, conservation and education.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore landscaped gardens and natural bushland displaying only Australian native plants, with sealed main paths, themed gullies, rock gardens and rainforest walkways. The site includes the Visitor Centre, Crosbie Morrison Building, Pollen cafe, bookshop, lookouts with views over Canberra, and interpretive signage. Guided walks, self-guided trails, birdwatching and photography are available across diverse habitats from rainforest to arid Red Centre displays.
Key highlights
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Rainforest Gully - elevated boardwalk through eastern Australian rainforest species
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Red Centre Garden - arid landscape inspired by central Australia
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Living collection of over 63,000 Australian native plants
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Crosbie Morrison Building and Visitor Centre with exhibitions