Landbohøjskolens Have

A Historic Garden Rooted in Academic Tradition

Landbohøjskolens Have, known in English as the Horticultural Garden, was established in 1858 on the Frederiksberg Campus of the University of Copenhagen. Originally created as a study garden for teaching horticulture and plant science, it has evolved into one of Copenhagen's most cherished botanical destinations. The garden's Victorian-era architecture and carefully curated landscapes reflect nearly two centuries of botanical stewardship, making it a living archive of horticultural knowledge and practice. The campus and gardens remain central to the Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, maintained by the Department of Plant and Environmental Science. Despite its academic roots, the garden has always welcomed the public, transforming what could have been an exclusive research space into a democratic green oasis accessible to all who seek it.

Botanical Diversity Across Themed Collections

The garden houses an impressive collection of over 6,000 different plant species, organized into thoughtfully designed botanical zones. Visitors encounter wild Danish herbs and native woody plants alongside ornamental specimens cultivated for their aesthetic and practical value. Dedicated sections showcase specialized collections: delicate alpine plants adapted to mountain conditions, vibrant roses in multiple varieties, azaleas and rhododendrons in seasonal bloom, and heather species that paint the landscape with colour. Beyond ornamental plants, the garden maintains extensive collections of medicinal herbs and historically significant botanical specimens. Many of these plants continue to serve modern pharmaceutical and wellness industries, connecting historical plant knowledge with contemporary applications. Ferns and forest floor plants create intimate woodland atmospheres, while the diversity of cultivated species demonstrates the breadth of human horticultural achievement.

Atmosphere and Seasonal Character

The garden's character shifts dramatically with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings lush green canopies, flowering displays, and the activation of the small greenhouse café called Væksthuset, which serves refreshments and light snacks on pleasant days. The towering mature trees provide natural cooling and create dappled shade ideal for leisurely exploration. Autumn transforms the landscape with warm foliage colours and a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere. Winter reveals the architectural bones of the garden, with evergreen plantings and structural elements becoming more prominent. The garden's design emphasizes accessibility and comfort, with numerous benches strategically placed throughout to encourage visitors to pause, sit, and absorb the botanical surroundings. This thoughtful provision of seating transforms the space from a mere collection of plants into a destination for relaxation and reflection.

Integration Within Urban Copenhagen

Situated within the Frederiksberg district, the garden functions as a verdant sanctuary amid the brick and concrete of the city. Its location on a university campus provides a sense of separation from urban bustle while remaining easily accessible from central Copenhagen. The garden's free admission and open-access model ensure it serves the entire community—students, staff, neighbours, and visitors from across Denmark and beyond—rather than functioning as an exclusive botanical institution. The surrounding Frederiksberg neighbourhood offers additional cultural and culinary attractions, making the garden a natural component of a broader exploration of Copenhagen's western districts. The proximity to other university facilities and residential areas has established it as a beloved local destination as well as a tourist attraction.