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Laurissilva - 

Natural Heritage

Laurissilva - Natural Heritage

An important part of the garden is dedicated to the Laurissilva, Madeira's magnificent native forest that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This forest is a true treasure trove of biodiversity, containing numerous native plants and representing a unique ecosystem, one of the oldest in Europe.
The Laurissilva is essential for Madeira's ecological balance, acting as a natural water reservoir and a vital habitat for countless species of flora and fauna. In the Garden, visitors can appreciate the richness and diversity of this forest through several iconic tree species and many other plants endemic to Madeira.


Highlighted Tree Species

The Garden features several tree species characteristic of the Laurissilva, including:


Canary Laurel

Laurus novocanariensis
With its aromatic leaves, this tree is one of the symbols of the Laurissilva forest.

Til

Ocotea foetens
Known for its durable and beautiful wood, til is common in the wetter areas of the Laurissilva.

Canary Wood

Persea Indica
This tree is renowned for its majestic size and high quality timber.

Barbusano

Apollonias barbujana
A robust tree that characterises the rare areas of more Mediterranean laurel forest.

Fire Tree

Myrica faya
The fire tree is a constant presence in almost all of Madeira's forests.

Lily-of-the-valley-tree

Clethra arborea
This beautiful species is prized for its fragrant white flowers and accompanies the lime tree in the wetter Laurissilva.

Botanical Rarities

The garden is also home to some of the most rare and endemic species on Madeira, such as:

Thick-leaved pittosporum

Pittosporum coriaceum
One of the most rare of the island’s native trees, this endangered plant is carefully preserved in the Garden.


Canary Islands juniper

Juniperus cedrus subsp. maderensis
A tree in decline in the wild, protected by nature conservation legislation due to its rarity.
Macaronesian species


Plants endemic to the neighbouring archipelagos of Macaronesia


In addition to those species that are exclusively Madeiran, the garden has plants that are also endemic to the neighbouring archipelagos of Macaronesia, enriching the area’s botanical diversity. These plants share a similar geological and climatic past, making Madeira a focal point for the study and conservation of island ecosystems.
Macaronesian species


Plants endemic to the neighbouring archipelagos of Macaronesia


In addition to those species that are exclusively Madeiran, the garden has plants that are also endemic to the neighbouring archipelagos of Macaronesia, enriching the area’s botanical diversity. These plants share a similar geological and climatic past, making Madeira a focal point for the study and conservation of island ecosystems.