Descanso Gardens

Back

The Enchantment of Descanso Gardens

My father, a British gent, has always considered himself quite the gardener (as do most British men). Wherever he decided to live there would be an eruption of fauna. Knowing of this intense horticultural leaning, I felt that during his next visit (to see his grand-daughter), a trip to Descanso Gardens in La Canada, California would fit the bill. With family in tow we headed out and I was not proven wrong.

Nestled beneath a mountain range on 160 acres of prime California real estate, this garden is truly a jewel. Blessed with a warm climate and its mountain proximity, Descanso Gardens is able to plant a tremendous variety of floricultural delights… from lilies to cacti, redwoods to oak.

Originally owned by Mr. Boddy, founder of the LA Daily News, it was sold to the County of Los Angeles in 1953. A Trust was formed to guide the development of the property and cudos to all.

The Rosarium (seasonal), situated on 5 acres, is set out in a circular pattern with the roses being laid out in a historical lineage of the blooms ranging from the Middle Ages to the American colonies and finishing with Victorian England. Top it off with ponds, marble fountains and magnificent trellis paths…how can one not be inspired?

The Descanso Gardens' lake is a designated wildlife refuge, containing 120 different varieties of fowl. The Japanese teahouse contains a Koi pond and rock garden. There is a redwood forest and a desert fauna section.

Don’t miss the largest outdoor planting of Camellias in the world! You will find a Lilac garden (100 varieties) and an Irises garden (150 varieties). Do not forget your camera. The colors and aromas are incredible.

While strolling through the dense 25-acre oak forest we spotted 2 mule deer and numerous bunnies. My dad reminisced that it reminded him of his college days in England. Not bad considering we’re in So Cal.

We thoroughly enjoyed the miniature train ride aboard the “Enchanted Railroad” ($2.00/passeger) that meanders through various sections of the garden, a wonderful side trip that the kiddies (and adults) enjoy.

One thing that I found particularly unique was the “freedom to roam” factor. Unlike most gardens that have established paths roped off, at Descanso there are dirt trails meandering off the paths…take them! You are encouraged to explore.

While trekking amongst the wonderful foliage and canopies, it begins to feel wild. “Am I someplace I shouldn’t be?” At the next clearing a strategically placed bench illustrates that it is okay to be here. Sit and ponder the solitude and the beauty. After hiking up boulders and thick brush, we found ourselves above a waterfall. Easily traversed we reached the viewing bench with a lovely view of the falls. Bring hiking boots as this is not your normal garden.

At the end the vote was unanimous… visiting Descanso Gardens was a splendid time had by all. Having since become members, we will return again and again to this enchanted place.

Open daily, 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., except Christmas
Check the website for special events, concerts in the green and their schedule of blooms.

Related Links:

Descanso Gardens

CustomWebsiteDesignServices.com