Botanical Gardens
Japanese Heritage Shōya House
Experience a restored residential compound from 18th-century Japan providing a glimpse into rural Japanese life some 300 years ago.
Botanical Living Collections
In addition to 130 acres of themed gardens, The Huntington has significant holdings of botanical living collections, including orchids, cycads, and bonsai, examples of which may be found throughout the grounds. These core collections are being preserved, expanded, studied, and promoted for public appreciation, and support many areas of botanical research, including conservation and cryopreservation. The collections also serve as the foundation of The Huntington’s educational programming, including botanical lectures, gardening workshops and demonstrations, and plant sales.
Sensory Adventures in the Gardens
California natives add a regional flair to gardens and also support local wildlife; many birds and pollinators prefer native plants, and some depend exclusively on them. Native plants fit a variety of garden niches, from spectacular specimen trees to ground covers, vines, and colorful annuals.
More Than Meets the Eye: Plant Conservation at The Huntington
When Henry E. Huntington purchased his estate in 1903, plant conservation was not foremost in his plans, but his passion for rare and unusual plants created the foundation for botanical collections that are significant to conservation initiatives in the 21st century.
To Hass and Hass Not: Avocados at The Huntington and Beyond
In 1905, Henry E. Huntington asked his superintendent of grounds, William Hertrich, if it was possible to grow an avocado orchard. Hertrich replied that he would be willing to make the experiment. More than a century later, the avocado experiment continues, linking communities and expanding our understanding of plant science.