Back in November, we embarked on an incredible journey around the world, visiting five countries in just three weeks. Amidst the whirlwind of travel, we still found time to explore some exquisite gardens in the USA. In an earlier post, I shared our visit to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami, a highlight that checked off a major item on my horticultural bucket list. But that wasn’t the end of our botanical adventures.
While in Pasadena, Los Angeles, we stumbled upon the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. One afternoon, with no specific plans, we decided to check it out—and I’m so glad we did. The Huntington is an absolute treasure, featuring a variety of themed gardens, including Chinese, Japanese, and Australian sections.
As Australians, the Australian garden didn’t hold much novelty for us—to be honest, it just felt like home, complete with familiar bush landscapes. However, the arid climate plants and palms were stunning, presented in an expertly curated display that left us in awe.
A particular highlight for me was the conservatory, which I simply couldn’t miss. Inside, I was delighted to find a Queensland Fan Palm (Licuala ramsayi), a little piece of home away from home.
What truly fascinated me, though, was spotting a heliconia growing outdoors alongside some Cordyline fruticosa cultivars. While I had seen heliconias in Los Angeles before—notably in the Jungle Cruise ride area at Disneyland—it still surprised me to see them thriving in the Huntington’s Mediterranean to desert climate. This is a testament to the power of good microclimates and irrigation, allowing plants to flourish outside their usual zones.
The gardens also showcased some truly impressive specimens, including what might be the largest Rhaphidophora pinnatum and Caryota gigas I’ve ever encountered. These giants were breathtaking, adding to the overall grandeur of the Huntington.
Visiting the Huntington Gardens was a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of greater LA. The meticulous landscaping and the sheer variety of plants on display make it a must-visit destination for any plant enthusiast or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. Our unplanned visit turned out to be one of the most memorable afternoons of our trip, and I’m so grateful we made the stop.
Zacaconia Tropical Gardens 