Museum of Economic Botany North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5000

Welcome to the Museum of Economic Botany, located on North Terrace in Adelaide, Australia. As the last of its kind in the world, our museum is a unique establishment that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of economic botany.

Our museum is home to an incredible permanent collection, much of which dates back to the original museum display 130 years ago. You'll find countless plants showcased here, each with their own various uses, all with a focus on minimizing waste. It's a true treasure trove of knowledge and discovery.

In addition to our permanent collection, we also feature intriguing, beautiful, and immersive touring exhibitions that are sure to inspire visitors. These exhibitions delve deeper into the relationship between nature and culture, offering a captivating experience for all.

The building itself is a treasure as well, lovingly restored to its former glory and featuring many original details. It's a testament to the rich history of economic botany and serves as a fitting backdrop for our exhibits.

If you're a fan of the Museum of Economic Botany, be sure to visit North Lodge or the Goodman Building and pick up a copy of our souvenir book. Inside, you'll find delightful papier-mâché fruit models, made in Germany, that were used to educate farmers on establishing crops in the 1800s. These models are not only beautiful to admire but also offer a glimpse into the past.

As you explore our collection, challenge yourself to spot the real fungi among the 210 papier-mâché models showcasing fungi in different stages of growth. It's a fun and educational activity that will test your observation skills.

One of our standout exhibits is artist Fiona Hall's Grove, a cabinet of curiosities that explores the intricate relationship between nature and culture. Prepare to be spellbound as you discover the thought-provoking and visually stunning pieces within.

Another highlight is the exhibition space created by designer Khai Liew. Blending the present with the past, this distinctive installation in timber and brass adds a modern touch to our museum.

Did you know that our beautiful heritage-listed Goodman Building, located on Hackney Road, was formerly the base for the Municipal Tramways Trust? Today, it serves as the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium administration building, a testament to its rich history and significance.

We are also passionate about environmental conservation and restoration. In our latest blog post, State Herbarium's Jem Barratt dives deep into the scientific work focused on seagrasses and seaweed, highlighting how it contributes to the preservation and restoration of our ocean ecosystems. It's a timely reminder of the importance of protecting our blue planet.

We invite you to explore the Museum of Economic Botany and immerse yourself in the wonders of economic botany. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about the world around us, our museum offers something for everyone. Come and discover the beauty and significance of economic botany in our one-of-a-kind institution.