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In 1873 when Daniel Berry bought land from the Rancho San Pasqual on behalf of a group of mid-westerners who founded Pasadena (or the "Indiana Colony" as the town was called back then), the plan had been to plant orange groves and grapes. And they did. But they did not stop with agricultural efforts. Four years later Jeanne Carr, a noted horticulturalist, was among the first to encourage her neighbors to plan and plant beautiful gardens. Her legacy is evident today in the landscaped and well-tended gardens that surround homes all over Pasadena. A love of gardens is also evident in public gardens in Pasadena and nearby areas.
The Huntington Botanical Gardens in San Marino contain an astonishingly diverse collection of plants. You will find thousands of succulents and cacti in the Desert Garden.
The Huntington's Japanese Garden, nestled in a steep ravine, is simply breathtaking -- especially when the wisteria blooms. The newest addition is the historically accurate Chinese Garden which was built recently by craftsmen brought from China. After you have seen some or all of the gardens, stop at the Tea Room or the outdoor patio restaurant for a bite to eat. Admission fee.
The Descanso Gardens in La Canada, just north of Pasadena, are well-known in the Los Angeles area and among camellia lovers throughout the U.S. The Gardens contain North America's largest collection of camellias, shaded under old California Oak trees. There is also a large International rose garden with roses from around the world. Gardening events and family-friendly activities happen almost weekly at the Descanso which is actively supported by locals. Have lunch or a snack under the arbor near the entry. Admission fee.
The Los
Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden is at the heart of Lucky Baldwin's
estate. Baldwin made his fortune with the Comstock Mine and
promptly moved to Southern California. His Victorian home is still on
southern end of the Arboretum -- just beyond the palm collection.
The first focus of the Arboretum, as the name indicates, was trees and
there are huge collections of eucalyptus, palms and other trees from
around the world. In more recent years, attention has focused on
expanding the plant collection into a full botanic garden and providing
xeriscape gardening guidance through classes and demonstration
gardens. Admission fee.
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