Originally set up in 1930, the Botanical Gardens have changed hands several times and are now owned by the university next door. Officially an arboretum, a fact that protects them by law, the gardens contain over 700 species of trees, shrubs and plants from Poland and abroad. Arranged into themed areas - among them endangered species, medicinal plants, and edible fruit trees - highlights include ginkgo, turkey oak, katsuras, and the wonderfully named ostrich fern. Primarily a scientific and educational institution, the gardens are open to the public, although many of the gates are often locked. The main entrance is at ul. Niemcewicza 2.