Ornamental Horticulture

Lal Bagh, Bengaluru (Karnataka)

The Lal Bagh situated at Bengaluru is the State Botanical Garden of Karnataka. Bengaluru with an altitude of about 900 m has a mild climate and is therefore suitable for growing a wide range of plants. The initial layout of the garden was started in 1760 by Hyder Ali. Presently, the garden is the seat of the Directorate of Horticulture of the State.

The most attractive feature of the garden is a large glasshouse where the annual flower show is held. The glasshouse is also used for holding important meetings, conferences and for receiving important dignitaries. Another attraction is the tall majestic-looking Araucarias, especially Araucaria excelsa (Syn. A. cookii) which steal the eyes of the visitors.

http://www.allaboutindia.org/top-ten-tourist-places-near-bangalore

The avenue of the large Ficus benjamina near the glasshouse is definitely a special feature of the garden. Three species of the flowering tree Tabebuia namely, Tabebuia argentea, T. avalandii and T. spectabilis are prized collections of the garden. The garden also has rich collections of cassia, bougainvillea and hibiscus. The other attractive features of the garden are collections of foliage plants, pergolas, arbours, statues, fountains, water garden, the aquarium, the rose garden and the natural rock formations. The garden with its well-laid-out features, paths, open spaces, shade and flowering trees attracts a large number of visitors regularly. The total area of the garden is about 50 hectares.