The botanical garden, founded in 1789 and run by the University of Palermo, is one of the most important in Europe for the introduction of subtropical species to Mediterranean climates. The 10-hectare site is divided into an Italianate parterre, a tropical glasshouse, an aquarium of pond ecosystems, and a long succession of palm-lined avenues.
The standout specimen is a vast Ficus macrophylla planted in 1845, with aerial roots forming a separate grove around the central trunk. The gymnosperm collection — cycads, monkey puzzles, ancient conifers — is also unusually complete. A quiet, slow visit on a hot afternoon; entry includes a guide leaflet.