From Asia to Africa: A Tour of Morocco’s Exotic Gardens’ Global Flora
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The Exotic Gardens of Morocco, located in Bouknadel, are a lively haven hosting a variety of plant species, including numerous tropical and subtropical plants originating from Asia, South America, and Africa. Established in 1951 by horticultural engineer Marcel François, this garden covers an area of 4.5 hectares and is divided into different sections, each showcasing unique ecosystems.
Boasting over 500 plant species from diverse regions such as China, South Asia, the Savannah, the Congo, Japan, Brazil, and Polynesia, the gardens thrive in the local environment. According to the director, Ibrahim Haddane, these plants “adapt very well to the climatic and geological conditions” of the location.
The upkeep of the gardens requires daily effort since each plant has specific requirements for water, light, and temperature. Some species demand extra care to survive in new climatic conditions. The technical team handles plant growth, adjusts watering routines, and protects vulnerable species from diseases. Within the gardens, temperatures range from 18°C in winter to 25°C in summer, and humidity levels are kept between 60% and 70%. The soil composition is a mix of clay and sand.
Plant production technician Marzak Charki explains, “Plants typically experience a biological dormancy period from late autumn until the conclusion of winter. Currently, due to water shortages, these plants are under stress, which can lead to erratic growth.” Challenges like water scarcity and global warming require adaptations in the maintenance methods. Haddane mentions, “We utilize efficient irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems. We also closely monitor the plants and implement biological pest control techniques, avoiding chemicals by relying on insects or animals instead.”
To conserve water, new drought-resistant plant varieties are being introduced. As per Haddane, approximately 100,000 visitors come to the Exotic Gardens annually. Besides attracting tourists, including international visitors, the gardens also serve as an educational and research hub, providing insights into plant diversity and strategies for protecting rare species.
These gardens contribute to advancing ecotourism in Morocco, presenting an alternative to traditional sightseeing options. Divided into three main areas—culture gardens, nature gardens, and educational gardens—they offer diverse experiences. The culture gardens feature designs inspired by Andalusian, Japanese, and Chinese styles, while the nature gardens contain 10 themed zones representing flora from Polynesia, the Congo, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, South Asia, the Antilles, the Shrubby Savanna, the Green Ravine, and the Labyrinth.
The Exotic Gardens were opened to the public for the first time in 1961.
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