Plants & Animals



Siberian squills

Flora
In the months after the winter, the first harbingers of spring can be seen in the garden, which is blooming with a large number of spring flowers. As early as in January, visitors can enjoy the bright yellow blooms of the winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis). In the months to follow, Alpine and Siberian squills (Scilla vindobonensis, Orthocallis sibirica), glory-of-the-snow (Chionodoxa lucilie), and white and yellow wood anemones (Anemone nemorosa, Anemone ranunculoides) turn the garden into an ocean of colours..

Botanical highlights of particular interest include the dry meadows with low-growing sedges, feather grass, milkwort and a few protected orchid species. The palace garden at Rusovce is one of the few Slovakian locations which host the severely endangered bug orchid (Anacamptis coriophora) and the unobtrusive autumn lady’s tresses (Spiranthes spiralis).

The dominating feature of the palace garden are the massive horse chestnuts (Aesculus hippocastanum). The London planes (Platanus hispanica) are of similar magnificence and splendour and are considered as one of the most attractive, and at the same time, resistant trees in the garden.

Visitors will also find remnants of shaped yews (Taxus baccata) and box trees (Buxus sempervirens). The garden’s stock of trees is complemented by limes, maples, oaks, common honey locusts and other ornamental woods. In dendrological terms, the incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) and the Spanish fir (Abies pinsapo) are among the most interesting specimens.

Fauna
In addition to its valuable flora, the garden also serves as a sanctuary for a rich and diverse fauna. Alone 30 species of song-birds, including the rare spotted flycatcher (Muscicapa striata), have found an adequate habitat in this place. With a little patience, visitors can see as many as six different species of woodpeckers. During the night, the park becomes the hunting grounds of owls and bats, but also of night-active mammals. Moreover, the old Danube arm hosts a broad range of amphibians and reptiles.

In the past, the old Danube arm was used for boating and, decorated with Chinese lanterns, even served as the setting for magnificent Venetian nights. Today, three bridges lead into the adjacent forest park, which blends harmoniously into the surrounding fields and forests.

Visit Rusovce and experience the charming atmosphere of the wild-romantic landscape garden! Take a stroll on the winding walks through the spacious garden and shady riparian forests of the old Danube arm and discover the magic of the calm and cosy places!

back