Santos Museum of Economic Botany

Step back in time to 1881 and discover the importance of plants in our lives; past, present and future.

The last of its kind in the world the Santos Museum of Economic Botany is home to an amazing permanent collection, much of which dates back to the original museum display 140 years ago. Also on show are intriguing, beautiful and immersive touring exhibitions which are sure to inspire.

The museum showcases countless plants and their various uses with a focus on minimising waste.

The building is a treasure in itself and has been lovingly restored featuring many original details.

If you love the MEB just as much as we do, pop into North Lodge or the Goodman Building and pick yourself up a copy of the souvenir book!

Permanent collections

Fruit Model Showcase

Made in Germany these delightful papier-mâché fruit models are for more than just admiring, they were used to educate farmers on establishing crops in the 1800s.

Fungi Model Showcase

Can you spot the real fungi? Challenge yourself as you explore the collection of 210 papier-mâché models showcasing fungi in different stages of growth.

Grove

Be spellbound as you discover artist Fiona Hall’s Grove, a cabinet of curiosities that explores the relationship between nature and culture.

Exhibition Space

Seaweeding

See a fascinating and beautiful art installation of large sculptural forms and prints-based works drawing from marine organisms.

In this SALA exhibition, artist Chris De Rosa has created an immersive installation consisting of a series of large-scale screen prints, etchings and digital prints based on imagery of spongia, sea and terrestrial plants and algae printed on paper and other media.

These works are accompanied by a series of small to large mixed media sculptures that stands alone or in conjunction with the printed works.

Dates: 19 August - 8 January 2023

Days: Open Wednesday - Sunday

Times: 10am - 4pm

Location: Santos Museum of Economic Botany, Adelaide Botanic Garden

Tickets: FREE ENTRY, no booking required

Opening hours

The Museum is open every Wednesday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm