Van Yüzüncü Yıl University garden showcases 300 medicinal and aromatic plant species

The Medical Aromatic Plants and Geofit Garden at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University (Van YYU) in Turkey brings together about 300 different plant species, including lavender, echinacea, sage, thyme, mint, marigold and many others. Developed over roughly ten years, the garden draws around 3,000 visitors each year, offering colour and scent displays from spring to late autumn while supporting scientific research and regional agriculture.

Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture Prof. Dr. Murat Tunçtürk said the university has also created a fruit orchard of 1,000 trees covering ten fruit varieties and a five‑hectare vineyard project, with plans for harvest festivals similar to those held in the medicinal‑aromatic garden. Associate professor Dr. Lütfi Nohutçu emphasized that all 300 plant species can be seen simultaneously in the same area, highlighting the garden’s educational and genetic‑resource value.