The Iconic Collection of Large-Sized Cacti and Succulents Returns to Outdoor Display

With the arrival of spring, the University Botanical Garden – Balchik once again showcases one of its most remarkable exhibitions – the open-air display of its large-sized cacti and succulent collection. Over 600 specimens representing 42 plant species have been arranged across 680 square meters in the Divine Garden and the Nursery Garden, creating a visually striking landscape.

The impressive specimens, some weighing over 300 kilograms, were carefully transported and positioned by the dedicated staff of UBG – Balchik in collaboration with colleagues from UBG – Varna. Among the highlights are representatives of the genus Opuntia, alongside a wide variety of succulents from the subfamily Agavoideae and the family Euphorbiaceae.

The origins of this valuable collection date back to the 1960s, when, with the support of Acad. Daki Yordanov – the founder of UBG Balchik – the plants were transported in extreme heat using military trucks from the Sofia Botanical Garden to the town of Balchik. At the time, the collection included ten-year-old cacti ranging in size from just a few centimeters to over a meter. In 2012, part of the large specimens was relocated to an indoor exhibition greenhouse to ensure optimal growing conditions.

Alongside the cacti and succulents, the seasonal palm collection was also arranged throughout the garden. These heat-loving plants are primarily located along the Main Alley, just past the garden's main entrance. Among the most impressive species due to their size and exotic appearance are the Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.), the California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera (T.Moore & Mast.) H.Wendl. ex de Bary), and the Australian Fan Palm (Livistona australis (R.Br.) Mart.). Visitors will also find a representative of Europe’s native flora – the Dwarf Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis L.), the only palm species naturally occurring on the continent.

The collections of palms, cacti, and succulents will remain on display until mid-October. As temperatures drop, the plants will be returned to the working greenhouses, where they will overwinter indoors at temperatures no lower than 12 °C (53.6 °F).