Botanicactus, Ses Salines – 150,000 sqm of tropical vegetation

“Botanicactus” – the name of Mallorca’s botanical garden says it all: on the 150,000 sqm site near Ses Salines, there is a lush tropical vegetation of 1,600 plant species and, as a special attraction, about 10,000 (according to the operators) different species of cacti such as prickly pears, agaves, golden ball cacti, yuccas, aloe vera and metre-high columnar cacti. One Arizona cactus is said to be over 300 years old. Since only 1,500 to 1,800 different species of cacti are listed worldwide, we are probably not talking about 10,000 species of cacti, but about 10,000 cacti in total. On an area of 2.5 hectares there are all kinds of Mediterranean trees such as olive, almond, pomegranate, pine, orange, carob and eucalyptus trees as well as cypresses. An artificially created lake of 10,000 sqm and 4 m depth serves as a fresh water tank for the irrigation of the huge, private area. The excavation of the lake created a hilly landscape that also protects the tropical plants. According to the operators, Botanicactus is the largest botanical garden in Europe. It has been open to the public since 1989.

The location near Ses Salines was chosen for the garden in the mid-1980s because it is one of the driest regions of Mallorca. Agricultural implements, clay pots and donkey carts have been placed in the lovingly landscaped park grounds. An old, traditional lime kiln was also installed. Oleander, bougainvillea, lavender, jasmine, rosemary and strelitzias not only provide splashes of colour in the prickly surroundings, they also spread a wonderful fragrance captivating the visitors. A visit is worthwhile. There are benches and picnic areas for rest breaks, but no catering or kiosk, so it is recommended to bring food and drinks. Well-maintained sanitary facilities and free parking are available.

Botanicactus, Placa ses Creus, 1 | Ctra. Ses Salines | Santanyí, km 1 | Tel.: 34 971 649 494 | www.botanicactus.com