Situated on the banks of the Yarra River in the heart of Melbourne, the Gardens extends over 38 hectares and houses a collection of more than 8,500 species of plants from around the world, including diverse plant collections such as camellias, rainforest flora, cacti and succulents, roses, Californian species, herbs, perennials, cycads, plants from Southern China and, in the Rare and Threatened Species Collection, plants from south-eastern Australia.

The Gardens were established in 1846 by Charles La Trobe, the first Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria. The initial site was chosen for its proximity to the Yarra River and its fertile soil, providing ideal conditions for plant cultivation. The gardens were originally intended to serve multiple purposes: to trial plants for agricultural potential, to provide a source of fresh vegetables for the colony, and to create a pleasant recreational space for Melbourne’s residents.

The gardens’ transformation from a practical agricultural site to a world-renowned botanical institution began in earnest under the direction of Ferdinand von Mueller, who served as director from 1857 to 1873 and  introduced thousands of plant species from around the world. He was succeeded by William Guilfoyle, transformed the more scientifically oriented layout into the picturesque landscape that balanced scientific purpose with artistic beauty. The Gardens prime position along the Yarra River’s south bank provides stunning views of the city skyline but also facilitated access to the river’s water resources, which have been crucial for irrigation. The layout of the gardens reflects both historical development and contemporary planning principles. The famous Ornamental Lake, created in the 1870s, serves as a central focal point for develpomemt. The Australian native plant collection is particularly noteworthy and the Australian Rainforest Walk takes visitors through a recreation of temperate rainforest environments, featuring tree ferns, native orchids, and ancient gondwanan species. The formal Rose Garden features both heritage varieties and modern cultivars, providing year-round color and fragrance, and  the Herb Garden showcases plants used for culinary, medicinal, and industrial purposes throughout history.

From its earliest days, the Royal Botanic Gardens has served as a center for botanical education and research. They hold a special place in the cultural and social life of Melbourne, serving as a gathering place for everything from casual family picnics to major cultural events and celebrations. The Gardens participate in numerous conservation programs, seed collection programs to preserve genetic diversity of threatened species, and propagation programs work to reestablish native species in degraded habitats. Water conservation has become a particular focus, with the implementation of innovative irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, and the selection of drought-tolerant plant varieties. The gardens provide a  habitat for native birds, insects, and other wildlife within the urban environment. They are a picturesque haven for recreation and an important resource for education, conservation, science, and horticulture.