The Nanjing Botanical Garden (南京中山植物园) sits at the northern foot of Purple Mountain and covers about 186 hectares. It is one of the largest botanical gardens in China, with collections spanning temperate and subtropical plants, a significant rose garden, and a section dedicated to Chinese medicinal herbs. The garden was established in 1929, making it one of China's oldest scientific botanical institutions.
The garden is an undervisited gem compared to the nearby mausoleum complex. In spring, the magnolia collection (particularly fine in March) and the rhododendron garden attract visitors; in summer, the lotus ponds are at their best. The arboretum sections in the eastern part of the garden are good for shade walking on hot days. Entrance fees are modest.