Calling out all botanists and horticulturalists who are visiting Kuching city for the first time!
Do not leave the city without visiting these botanical gardens:
1. DBKU Orchid Park
While the hibiscus is Malaysia’s official flower, Sarawak’s state flower is actually the Normah Orchid (Phalaenopsis bellina).
So, having a whole garden dedicated solely to orchids in Kuching comes as no surprise.
Located near the State Legislative Assembly, the garden houses of more than 75,000 plants.
Some of these plants include Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum sanderianum) and Bulbophyllum beccarii .
In July 2019, 600 participants from 13 countries are expected to come for 13th Asia Pacific Orchid Conference in Kuching.
2. Pitcher Plant and Wild Orchid Center
In the 19th century, Marianne North, a botanical artist came to Sarawak to paint scenery and plants. One of the plants she painted was a pitcher plant endemic only to Borneo.The species was eventually named after North, Nepenthes northiana as she was the first person to illustrate it.
Fast forward to 21st century, there are now plenty books and illustrations of pitcher plants. Plus, there is a botanical garden hosting up 35 species or subspecies of pitcher plants in Kota Padawan.
Apart from pitcher plants, there are other species including wild orchids found in the garden.Pay it a visit if you want to know more about this carnivorous plant. The centre opens Tuesday to Sunday.
3. Sarawak Botanical Garden
The third botanical garden is still undergoing expansion.
After receiving RM10 mil fund from the federal government in 2016, the garden is going to be spread over 83ha. It will link Darul Hana Bridge, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex and Orchid Garden.
The garden is targetted to be one of the sustainable networks of green spaces in Kuching city. It will also be a recreational activity area as well as a tourist landmark.
Special mention: Kuching Seed Swap
A public Facebook group, if you live in Kuching and are an avid gardener or even just starting out, Kuching Seed Swap is a free seed/plant/produce exchange group for all Kuching based gardeners.
The group aims to bring together a community of gardeners to share not just plants and seeds, but also knowledge and experience.
Happy Gardening!
