Location & How to Get There

Desert Plant Area sits inside Xianhu Botanical Garden, located at 160 Xianhu Road, Liantang, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province. To reach here, you can take the metro to Liantang Station (Line 2) and then walk or grab a taxi—it’s just a 10-minute ride from the city center. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking space near the garden entrance.

Natural Wonders: A Desert Oasis in the City

Step into Desert Plant Area, and you’ll feel like you’re teleported to a different world. This 10,000+ square meter zone is packed with cacti and succulents from America and Africa. You’ll spot quirky shapes like giant golden barrel cacti (some over 80 cm wide!) and 200-year-old saguaro columns that tower 6 meters high. There’s even a section dedicated to “living stones” (Lithops), which look like pebbles but are actually plants!

The real star? Aloe vera fields grown for their medicinal superpowers. These plants aren’t just pretty—they’re functional too! And if you love unique textures, don’t miss the spiky, geometric cacti that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Conservation Stories & Human Connections

What makes Desert Plant Area special? It’s not just about looks. Many plants here, like cacti and cycads, are protected under an international treaty (CITES), just like rare animals. Since 1992, the garden has built six giant greenhouses to grow and study these plants. They’ve collected over 1,000 species, including 600+ cacti and 100+ aloes. It’s like a library of desert life!

Fun fact: Some plants here take decades to grow. The saguaro columns, for example, are literally 200 years old—talk about living history!

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Desert Plant Area is easy to explore. Paths are shaded, so you won’t melt under Shenzhen’s sun. Keep an eye out for info signs—they’re written in English and explain cool facts about each plant.

If you get thirsty, there’s a café nearby, and the gift shop sells succulent-themed souvenirs (perfect for plant lovers!). For families, there are interactive displays where kids can learn about desert ecosystems. Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos!

Why You’ll Love It

Desert Plant Area isn’t just a pretty spot—it’s a chance to see rare plants up close, learn about conservation, and snap Instagram-worthy shots. Whether you’re a plant nerd or just looking for a peaceful escape, this hidden gem in Shenzhen’s urban jungle will surprise you. Plus, it’s free with your Xianhu Botanical Garden ticket!

P.S. Don’t forget to check their website—they often host succulent workshops where you can pot your own cactus. 🌵