The Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Gardens is an oasis on fifth avenue. (Open June 1- September 15)
The Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden, established in 1987, is the largest such garden in North America. Sitting on a third of an acre, the garden is the only one of its kind to feature an ongoing program of research and publication.
The pastoral setting includes a waterfall, a desert, a stream, and a representation of the River Jordan, which meanders through the garden from our Lake Galilee to our Dead Sea. All plants in the garden—more than 100—are labeled with appropriate biblical verses and are displayed among replicas of ancient farming tools. Among the specimens are wheat, barley, millet, and herbs valued by the ancient Israelites. Olives, dates, pomegranates, figs, and cedar trees round out the historic and educational inventory. New plants join the garden annually!