California Central Coast Online Business and Travel Directory

Cabrillo College Environmental Horticulture Center
Botanic Gardens.: The salvia collection is divided into sections which represent the various areas in the world where the individual species are considered native. For more info..

San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
Featuring native plant life and recreated native structures.

The mission of the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is to display the diverse plant life of the Mediterranean climate zones of the world and to provide opportunities for education, recreation, conservation and research. Through its programs and facilities, the Garden will foster an appreciation and understanding of the relationship between people and nature and will encourage a sense of stewardship toward the natural environment.

The first seeds for the Garden were planted in 1989, with the support of San Luis County Parks Department. Incorporated in 1991, a grassroots group, the Friends of SLO Botanical Garden, began searching for an ideal site. El Chorro Regional Park was chosen because it offered a convenient location between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay, good soils, no horticultural limitations, and already was zoned as a public space. A 40-year renewable lease agreement was signed with San Luis Obispo County in 1993 for 150 acres.

There is even a beautiful playground provided for youngsters! And dozens of beautiful trees. Bunnies hopping around the beautiful landscaping are are so cuddly!

Docent-Led Tours for Groups by Appointment

Garden Tours
What is our Mediterranean climate and what does it mean to our plants?
How do plants adapt to our Mediterranean climate of dry summers?
How did native people in California and the other four Mediterranean climate zones use plants in their everyday lives?
How do you choose and grow plants from the five Mediterranean climate regions in your home landscape? What are some California native plants and how can they be useful?
What are succulents and what is their value and use? How does soil, water, and light fit into the care of plants?
What attracts certain pollinators such as birds, bees, and butterflies to certain plants? Make arrangements for your club, business, or group of friends to take a personal tour on one of the above topics or a special topic you can discuss with the tour coordinator. Complete the request below or call 805-546-3501. Rain cancels the tour.

Visit the website for more information including their up and coming events, donation information, store as well as directions. San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Garden/Arboretum, Santa Barbara

Scenic trails meander through the garden's 78 acres of native plants. The Mission Dam, built in 1806, stands just beyond the redwood grove and above the restored aqueduct that once carried water to Mission Santa Barbara. An ethno botanical display demonstrates how Native Americans used plants to create baskets, clothing, and structures. A threatened native species has gained hope and support, as the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Laguna Blanca School officially announced a cooperative effort to help restore the Torrey Pine. More info.. COST: $7. OPEN: Mar.-Oct., daily 9-6; Nov.-Feb., daily 9-5. Guided tours daily at 2; additional tour on weekends at 11. Address: 1212 Mission Canyon Rd., Santa Barbara, CA, Phone: 805/682-4726 Santa Barbara Botanical Garden

MENDOCINO COAST BOTANICAL GARDENS
18220 North Highway One, Fort Bragg, CA 95437: This magnificent 47 acre public botanical garden features several of the region's native irises in an attractive forested setting. There is a colorful assortment of "Pacifica hybrids" , ranging from deep purples, reds and pinks to creams, whites and yellows. More info at Garden By The Sea