Plants

In addition to state-of-the-art animal houses and large natural exhibit, the zoo in Zlín boasts a splendid botanical collection with over 1,100 species of plants and herbs growing throughout the grounds.

There are also a few European zoos where you find such a distinctive combination of animal displays and horticulture. Through relevant choices of plants we are trying to demonstrate a habitat of that region and highlight the design of the exhibit. Gradually, attractive places of botanical interest are also being set up to help create, along with a variety of original ethnographic elements, the atmosphere of the continent.

Year of opening: 2013

Another piece in the mosaic of exotic places that you can relish at Zlín Zoo. Set up on an area of nearly a thousand square metres next to the Malayan tapir exhibit, three specimens of Japanese white pine are the landmark for this site. Imported directly from Japan, all of them reach the age of about one hundred years. There are only a few trees similar to these in this country. Typical of a Japanese garden - including Mu-Shin - is modesty, neatness and cleanliness. Although the number of tree species planted here count just over 20, all the plants demonstrate careful efforts of horticulturists whose intention is creating soothing, rounded shapes. As important as the greenery is the vast amount of stones of all sizes and shapes, as well as several large kasuga lanterns. Combined with the plants, they evoke the impression of a dry stone mountain garden.

Actually, can you guess what is behind the name? Literally, "Mu-Shin" translates as "no thoughts" or "beyond one's mind". We would be happy if such places permit the visitor forget the worries of everyday life, be able to relax and, last but not least, even recharge energy.

Year of opening: 2016

From its very beginning, the Lešná estate has been renowned for its well-kept grounds and the creation of cohesive horticultural displays. In the first half of the 19th century, the Seilern family built a long flower hall, a pineapple greenhouse, and an orangery near the original chateau. Between 1884 and 1888, they established a romantic English-style park, which—together with the new chateau completed in 1893—continues to give Lešná its unique charm to this day.

Today, we strive to build on the gardening achievements of the estate’s original owners. Alongside animal exhibits, we are also developing botanical features. In 2016, we opened a garden named Andalusia, inspired by the design of traditional Mediterranean gardens typical of the Andalusian region. A key feature is a decorative water fountain, offering welcome refreshment in the heart of a sun-drenched Spanish-style courtyard. You'll also notice the striking century-old olive trees, which, due to our climate, are regularly moved to heated greenhouses during the winter months.