JBCLM | 2010-2026

This collection represents a karstic pond from the Ruidera area, bordered by dense reeds (Cladium mariscus) and crossed by a bridge. Two streams flow into it: one from a mixed willow grove and another from the Eurosiberian relic forest of the Upper Tajo. Accompanying the reeds are other marsh plants such as loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris) and yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus).

The Ruidera Lake Nature and Biosphere Reserve comprises a series of calm lakes along the Guadiana valley, separated by travertine barriers, a partially biogenic sedimentary rock formed by calcium carbonate deposition through photosynthetic organisms. This natural environment has been successfully recreated in the Castilla-La Mancha Botanical Garden, including replicas of the famous waterfalls connecting the large freshwater basins.

Along one side of the recreation, typical forest species from the area have been planted, including Spanish and Phoenician junipers (Juniperus thurifera and J. phoenicea), as well as aromatic shrubs such as bitter chamomile (Santolina chamaecyparissus subsp. squarrosa), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), and sage (Salvia lavandulifolia). Two large white poplars (Populus alba) watch over the space.

In the pond’s water, there is a meadow of charophytes (Chara) and some white water lilies (Nymphaea alba), another protected aquatic species found in certain karstic lagoons in the region. Near the lagoon, a traditional dry-stone shelter (cuco or bombo) has been recreated, historically used by field workers for protection against the elements. Nearby, a replica of a water wheel (noria) demonstrates the traditional use of water flow to operate hammers for textile fiber processing.