United States Botanic Garden

Washington, D.C., United States, United States

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The United States Botanic Garden in Washington, D.C., established in 1820, is the oldest continually operating public botanic garden in the United States and one of the oldest in North America.

The idea of a national botanic garden was first championed by George Washington and other founding leaders as part of the nation's heritage. Its earliest plants came from the United States Exploring Expedition to the South Seas in 1842, which formed the basis for the garden's living collection.

The garden moved to its current location near the Capitol in 1933, featuring a large conservatory renovated between 1997 and 2001, outdoor gardens including the National Garden and Bartholdi Park with the iconic Fountain of Light and Water designed by the same sculptor as the Statue of Liberty.

The garden showcases about 4,000 plant species from tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates and serves as an educational center promoting plant conservation, horticulture, and biodiversity. It operates under the Architect of the Capitol and offers visitors a rich experience combining natural beauty, history, science, and public programs in America’s capital.