Wake up to the color of spring – and hope

By Elena Epstein

There is something so restorative about spring. Every new flower bud, every new bloom sparks a deep sense of renewal and hope within us. Nature is where I find peace, where I go to pause, to breath, to reflect, to just be.

Last spring, the pandemic shut down all of our spectacular gardens. But this year we can once again experience some of L.A.’s most spectacular must-see blooms on display now.

Per COVID-19 guidelines, masks and physical distancing are currently required, and tickets must be reserved in advance. Check individual websites for the most up-to-date information.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Show-stoppers: The “Pink Cloud” cherry trees are planted in the Japanese Garden, near the entrance to the Zen Courtyard. Early March is the best time to take a walk along the path under the delicate pink blossoms. And later in the month, don’t miss the wisteria, popping with purple blossoms in several locations, including the Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden. You’ll find the most dramatic display is a massive vine of Wisteria floribunda (“Macrobotrys”) covering a long faux bois trellis overlooking the historic Japanese Garden.

Tickets and info: huntington.org

Descanso Gardens

Show-stoppers: More than 30,000 tulip bulbs that are planted each year in the Promenade area will produce a breathtaking assortment of tulips in different colors and varieties. The theme for March will is “Birds & Nests.” Art displays throughout the gardens and in the Center Circle will celebrate both. And the popular “Tomatomania!” will be back this year from March 26-28 with a COVID-19 safe format, but still full of tomato and pepper seedlings.

Tickets and info: descansogardens.org. 

L.A. County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Show-stoppers: Trumpet trees producing brilliant hot-pink blooms provide a spectacular canopy display. As you stroll these grounds, you’ll most likely also see the added flare of color from the resident peacocks. During your visit, don’t miss the orange poppies in the Crescent Farm, where a variety of drought tolerant plants, shrubs and orchard trees are planted.

Tickets and info: arboretum.org