<p>This study examines the effect of public garden design in Guelma, Northeastern Algeria, on the biophilic behaviors of public garden users, within a context of rich yet underutilized plant diversity. It assesses the combined influence of vegetative components of biophilic design” selected as the sole natural element” and physical spatial attributes on the expression of biophilic behaviors defined by Kellert’s typology. A mixed-methods approach was applied in three phases: a qualitative phase of non-participant observation to define measurable behavioral indicators; spatial analysis of vegetative and physical attributes through detailed inventories and measurements; a quantitative survey of public garden users using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using regression models in SPSS. The study reveals that the elements composing the biophilic design and the physical attributes of the studied gardens significantly influence public garden users’ biophilic behavior. However, this contribution remains moderate, suggesting the involvement of other spatial, environmental, and individual factors. These findings underscore the complexity of design effects, where biophilic and physical features can positively or negatively influence biophilic behavioral responses depending on their quality, distribution, and integration within the landscape. They also provide practical recommendations for optimizing the studied gardens and for intentionally guiding the design of future typological public gardens specifically aimed at fostering targeted biophilic behaviors.</p>