Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

The Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (often abbreviated to VU-Hortus) is a botanical garden belonging to Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam, Netherlands. It was established in 1967 for the purpose of education and research for the Biology faculty. It is situated behind the University Medical Centre, and includes a garden area of about 1 hectare (2.5 acres) of which about 1,000 square metres (11,000 sq ft) is occupied by glass-houses. Since 1988, the Hortus no longer has an educational function, but the property is still owned and supported by the university.[1]

Entrance on Van de Boechorststraat

The collection includes about 10,000 species, such as varieties of hardy ferns, cacti and succulents. There is also a collection of carnivorous plants and orchids. The garden also accommodates a collection of trees and shrubs, tub plants, etc.

There is international collaboration with over 500 botanical gardens and numerous Biblical gardens worldwide.

The Hortus's existence was threatened in 2009, when plans for an expansion of the university hospital called for it to be removed.[1] In 2010, after widespread popular protest, the VU announced the Hortus could remain.[2]

References
  1. "Strijden voor de VU-hortus". Het Parool (in Dutch). 7 April 2009. Retrieved 8 November 2012.
  2. "Hortus bij VU hoeft nog niet weg". RTV N-H. 11 August 2011. Retrieved 8 November 2012.

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