Flora of Austria

Elements of Austria’s flora have been presented in this area of the Garden since 1990. One focus is on the typical terrain of eastern Austria, where steppe-like habitats have developed in a hot and dry climate. The serpentine group displays a special section of the local flora, which is adapted to soils containing heavy metals.

This part of the Garden has a long history. In the 18th century, the Belvedere's kitchen garden was located here, where fruit and vegetables were grown for Prince Eugene and his guests. When the Belvedere came into possession of the Habsburgs, this area became their chamber garden. Emperor Franz II (I) had it remodelled as his private garden. On his behalf, the physician and botanist Nikolaus Thomas Host created an extensive ’Flora Austriaca’ here between 1793 and 1834 displaying plant species from the crown lands at the time. Today's Flora of Austria group follows this tradition.

In this part of the Garden, we pay special attention to a natural design so that wild bees and other insects find a suitable habitat here.