Nature Gardens

Outside in our Nature Gardens

Explore the Nature Gardens, our urban wildlife wonderland. Over 600 kinds of plants—including California natives and others from around the world—make a home for birds, butterflies, lizards, squirrels, and more!

What's in Season?

Plants and animals are up to something every single day in the Nature Gardens. Come discover the sights and sounds of fall and pick up some ideas that you can try in your own garden.

Pumpkins and squash in the Edible Garden

What would autumn be without pumpkins and squash?

Ladybird beetle on squash leaf in Edible Garden

Whether spotted or plain, ladybird beetles are great garden allies. They feast upon aphid, scale, and other pest insects.

This hybrid grapevine adds a kaleidoscope of fall color before dropping its leaves and shutting down for the winter.

Hummer and pineapple sage in Nature Gardens

This little hummer is resting after sipping nectar from the red flowers of pineapple sage.

Guess who pollinates the tubular flowers of this native California fuchsia?

Dorsett golden apples ripening in the edible garden.

Cattail is just one of several plants that grow with their roots in standing water. Look for others at our pond.

Blooming from late summer into fall, marsh fleabane boasts masses of small purple flowers.

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What would autumn be without pumpkins and squash?

Whether spotted or plain, ladybird beetles are great garden allies. They feast upon aphid, scale, and other pest insects.

This hybrid grapevine adds a kaleidoscope of fall color before dropping its leaves and shutting down for the winter.

This little hummer is resting after sipping nectar from the red flowers of pineapple sage.

Guess who pollinates the tubular flowers of this native California fuchsia?

Dorsett golden apples ripening in the edible garden.

Cattail is just one of several plants that grow with their roots in standing water. Look for others at our pond.

Blooming from late summer into fall, marsh fleabane boasts masses of small purple flowers.

Did you know? San Gabriel chestnut snails smell like chocolate.

Favorite Spots

You can see familiar plants and discover something new at these special spots in the Nature Gardens.

Pond

Where there’s water, there’s life. Discover the animals that live in or visit this pond and the native plants that thrive here.

Pollinator Meadow

Flowers are blooming, seeds are ripening, and wildlife is paying attention!

Get Dirty Zone

Dig in compost, get creative in the Nature Build area, and look for roots in this hands-on zone.

Living Wall

What lives where stone meets soil? See for yourself along this meandering sandstone wall.

guests family kid guest relations wildlife bird viewing nature fest

Wildlife Viewing

Every bush, flower, and tree in the Nature Gardens was planted to attract animals. And, we’ve created a few special places where you can look for them!