Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Açores > Horta > Flamengos > Casa do Guarda-florestal

Location

The Faial Botanical Garden is located in the parish of Flamengos, in the municipality of Horta, on the island of Faial. It is situated in an area associated with the designation "Casa do Guarda-florestal" (Forester's House), suggesting an environment of proximity to nature and forest heritage. Its insertion in Flamengos gives it a position that allows for a tranquil immersion in green, away from the hustle and bustle, but accessible within the urban and rural surroundings of the locality.

A Green and Scientific Legacy

Inaugurated in 1986, the Faial Botanical Garden plays a crucial role in the conservation and study of the endemic flora of the Azores. Its existence aims not only at the preservation of unique plant species but also at scientific dissemination and environmental awareness. Recognized for its value, it was awarded an honorable mention by Turismo de Portugal in 2011, attesting to the merit of its requalification and its importance to the region. It is a space where botany meets education, inviting a deeper understanding of Azorean biodiversity.

The Richness of Azorean Flora

As one walks along the paths of the Botanical Garden, it is possible to discover a vast and diverse collection of plants. Here you can find some of the rarest plant species of the Azores, living testimonies of the archipelago's ecological uniqueness. The garden also features examples of traditional agricultural crops, medicinal and aromatic plants, and even the main invasive species, offering a complete perspective on the island's plant landscape. This diversity provides a glimpse into the history and evolution of the local flora.

The World of Orchids

One of the most notable sections of the garden is the Azorean Orchidarium, a space inaugurated in June 2019. This orchidarium houses a magnificent collection of orchids, displaying a wide variety of species and hybrids. The orchids are organized according to their environmental needs, with greenhouses dedicated to tropical species and shaded or outdoor areas for those from temperate zones. The accompanying interpretive exhibition reveals facts and curiosities about this fascinating family of plants, making the visit an enriching and visually appealing experience.

Biodiversity Preservation

At the heart of the Faial Botanical Garden lies the Azores Seed Bank. This bank plays a vital role in the conservation of the local flora's genetic heritage, protecting rare and endangered species through seed storage. The international recognition of the Azores Seed Bank by the Botanic Garden Conservation International (BGCI) underscores the importance of the work developed here in safeguarding biodiversity. This center is not just an exhibition space, but a living laboratory dedicated to the perpetuation of Azorean species.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt