Arboretum Volcji Potok

Arboretum Volčji Potok is Slovenia’s foremost botanical park, located near Ljubljana and spanning 85 hectares of gardens, meadows, and woodlands. It holds over 3,500 species and cultivars of trees and shrubs, with particularly strong collections of maples (Acer spp.), magnolias (Magnolia spp.), and conifers from around the world. Seasonal highlights—such as spring tulip displays, blooming rhododendrons, and striking autumn foliage—draw thousands of visitors annually.

The historical core of the arboretum was formed in the early 20th century on the grounds of a former mansion. Some of the most remarkable specimens include a dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) with the world record for the largest published girth, measuring 657 cm (in 2021), a 250-year-old small-leaved linden (Tilia cordata), a row of European beeches (Fagus sylvatica) over 230 years old, and some of the tallest tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera) and red oaks (Quercus rubra) in Europe.

Founded as a public institute in 1952, the arboretum has long focused on ornamental woody plants, while increasingly emphasizing biodiversity, conservation and climate resilience. The Trees for the Future collection features species selected for drought and heat tolerance, and a new project is underway to cultivate native Slovenian woody species from local seed sources. In 2017, the arboretum also established a growing collection of 250 Eastern European rose varieties as part of its role in hosting a regional WFRS convention.

The arboretum also plays an essential educational role, offering learning programs and resources for students, researchers, and visitors of all ages. Through thoughtful stewardship, we aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the importance of plants in our environment.