Abstract: Aims: Global plant diversity has experienced a sharp decline, primarily due to human activities and climate change, posing a significant threat to human existence and development. In this context, botanical gardens have played an important role in the research and protection of plant diversity. In the mainland of China, the development of a national botanical garden system is underway, with the purpose of strengthening the comprehensive collection, complete protection, and in-depth research of wild plants, and promoting sustainable use. Our aim here is to offer suggestions for the advancement of the botanical garden system in the mainland of China, based on an understanding of the general state of botanical gardens, with the goal of more effectively conserving plant diversity. Method: We collected and analyzed comprehensive data from 170 botanical gardens in the mainland of China, including the year of establishment, affiliations, staff structure, and their performance in conservation, research, education, horticulture, and amenities. Gardens were categorized into levels A to D based on their performance and were compared among levels and affiliations. Results: We found that 90% of botanical gardens in the mainland of China are government-sponsored public welfare institutions. Botanical gardens affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences have outstanding capacity in scientific research, while those managed by government departments have made significant contributions to conservation, horticulture, education, and recreation, but lag in research ability. Furthermore, the absence of robust collaborative efforts among gardens was identified, which undermines the collective impact. Conclusion: We advocate for the construction of a system comprising "national botanical gardens - regional botanical gardens - local botanical gardens," to carry out cooperative plant diversity research and conservation efforts that encompass China's native flora and extend globally. We also recommend the creation of an integrated information facility for plant conservation that leverages digitalization and standardization to enhance coordination and collaborative efforts. Additionally, we endorse accreditation of botanic gardens and innovation of management paradigms to bolster sustainability. These recommendations may help protect plant diversity and promote sustainable development.

Key words: national botanical gardens, ex situ conservation, digitalization, standardization, conservation network, sustainable development