Zagara di primavera 2026

22> 24 MAY 2026

Zagara di Primavera 2026: from 22 to 24 May, the 30th edition of the exhibition and market for lovers of plants, flowers and gardening

Spring blossoms at the Botanical Gardens: Zagara di primavera 2026 returns – 30 editions of beauty!

The scent of orange blossom, the vibrant greenery of the Botanical Gardens and the magic of exceptional gardening: from 22 to 24 May 2026, Palermo once again becomes the capital of floriculture with the 30th edition of Zagara di Primavera.

The countdown has begun; get ready to immerse yourself in a unique sensory experience, as a gentle breeze carries the scent of orange blossom through the avenues of Palermo’s Botanical Garden: collectors, enthusiasts and the curious will gather to celebrate biodiversity, plants and beauty.

What’s in store for you?

• The finest in horticulture: a journey through rare and sought-after botanical collections from the national horticultural scene. From the rarest succulents to tropical orchids, from ancient rose varieties to aquatic plants – not just plants, but true living treasures, the result of years of study, research and passion.

• Craftsmanship and local produce: not just plants, but also natural products and handcrafted creations inspired by the plant world.

• Expert advice: a unique opportunity to engage directly with growers, the custodians of an extraordinary biodiversity that spans the entire peninsula.

• Beyond gardening, a programme (currently being finalised) packed with events, because Zagara is all about culture, exchange and discovery: talks and meetings to deepen your understanding of the plant world, book presentations, guided tours to uncover the history and hidden treasures of this treasure trove of biodiversity, and creative and educational activities to teach children about the beauty of nature.

• Visitors will be able to explore the new Sala Tineo, a recently opened multimedia space housing the permanent installation ‘Il pianeta delle piante’ (The Planet of Plants), an immersive experience combining technology and botany. Currently on display within it is also a unique treasure of Renaissance botany: a priceless 1583 edition of Pietro Andrea Mattioli’s famous herbarium, “I Discorsi”, embellished with woodcut illustrations that capture the essence of the plant in every part — from roots to flowers — with the aim of facilitating its scientific identification. Visitors will also be able to admire the cashmere and silk scarf “All’Orto Botanico di Palermo”, which the French fashion house Hermès has dedicated to our Botanical Garden, based on a design by the French artist and landscape architect François Houtin.

Exhibitors

Who will be the stars of this year’s event? > We are finalising the selection of this year’s exhibitors. The list will be published very shortly. Get ready to discover botanical varieties that will take your breath away. The exhibition and market boasts the presence of prestigious names from the national nursery sector.

Among the new highlights of this year’s event:
• Vivaio Le Moie: a Turin-based specialist in the cultivation of aquatic plants, such as water lilies, lotus flowers and marsh plants, a go-to destination for those seeking quality plants for ponds, lakes and fountains.

• Varesina Orchidee: a nursery specialising in the cultivation and sale of tropical botanical and hybrid orchids from all over the world, in keeping with a horticultural tradition that literally has its roots in the Varese area. A must-visit for all orchid lovers.

The event is an unmissable occasion for plant enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to discover and purchase rare botanical collections, plants, flowers, fruits and high-quality artisanal products. It is not merely a market exhibition, but a true hub for botanical education, where enthusiasts, experts and nursery owners can meet to exchange knowledge and foster a community united by a passion for plants and nature.

The main aim is to educate the public on the importance of biodiversity, green space management and sustainable practices. 

The event is promoted, conceived and organised by the Botanical Garden of the University Museum System (Unipa Heritage). The festival will host around 60 exhibitors, nursery growers and artisans from all over Italy, inviting you to discover the latest in horticultural production.

Zagara di Primavera is an encounter with beauty in all its forms, an opportunity to spend three days in harmony with nature in this welcoming and extraordinary oasis of relaxation. An event that combines passion, botanical culture and conviviality, which over the years has become a delightful and unmissable tradition for the city.

We look forward to seeing you at the 30th edition!

Vi aspettiamo per la 30ª edizione!

INFO

www.ortobotanico.unipa.it/zagara
Where >
Botanical Garden of the University of Palermo > via Lincoln, 2

When >
22, 23 and 24 May 2026

Opening hours >
Friday 22 May | 12:00–20:00
Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 May | 09:00–20:00 

Tickets >
FULL PRICE | €5
REDUCED (6–12 years) | €2
FREE | for under-6s and disabled visitors (available directly at the ticket office)
*All other concessions and free entry are suspended for Zagara di Primavera.

Purchase at the ticket office or online > buy tickets here

Note: pets are not permitted under the Botanical Garden’s regulations.