Jardim de Palheiro (Palheiro Gardens), Funchal

The Palheiro Gardens (Jardim de Palheiro) is a stunning botanical garden situated in Quinta de Pilheiro. This location is renowned not only for the diversity of plants it cultivates but also for its picturesque setting amidst hills near Funchal.

The gardens are positioned at an elevation of approximately 500 meters above sea level, east of Funchal. The region features a humid subtropical climate, where Hibiscus and Bougainvillea bloom throughout the year alongside Jacarandas, Spathodeas, Erythrinas, and Bauhinias during their respective seasons. Enclosed by thick, damp stone walls, visitors can enter the interior by paying a fee at the wrought iron gate.

The original owner, the Count of Carvalhal, had planted several species of trees on the estate and began collecting Camellias, some of which remain in the garden to this day. Since 1885, the Blandy family has owned the Quinta and has been adding to the gardens across successive generations. The interplay between the villa and the verdant gardens is simply breathtaking.

The collections at Quinta do Palheiro's gardens are remarkable, including the Camellia collection, with the peak flowering season between November and April; the arboretum with oaks, birches, beeches, hazelnuts, cedars, Eucalyptus, and Araucarias; and a collection of Proteaceae species that are typically challenging to grow outside their native habitat. The garden features several noteworthy plant species, such as Silver trees (Leucodendron argenteus), Waratah (Telopea speciosissima), Malabar nut, Justicia brandegeeana, and Alberta Magna.

The growing beds in the garden are a sight to behold, as colorful flowers and plants create vibrant, vivid patterns.