Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden

Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden: A Living Museum in Los Angeles

The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden, often referred to as the UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden, is an extraordinary public garden located on the UCLA campus in Los Angeles, California. Spanning 7.5 acres, this garden serves as both an outdoor classroom and a research facility, offering a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and scholars alike. The garden showcases a vast collection of plants that reflect the diverse ecosystems of California and the Mediterranean climate regions of the world.

Plan Your Visit

Admission to the UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden is completely free, making it an accessible destination for everyone. The Garden is open seven days a week, allowing visitors to explore its beautiful collections at their convenience. The hours vary by season, with weekdays from 8 AM to 5 PM from February through October and from 8 AM to 4 PM from November to January. On weekends, the Garden opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM or 4 PM depending on the season. It’s worth noting that the garden is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and it closes early at 2 PM on Christmas Eve.

Collections and Education

The UCLA Herbarium, an integral part of the garden, houses approximately 150,000 dried and pressed plant specimens. These specimens focus on the flora of California and the Western United States, with an interest in Mediterranean-climate regions globally. The Herbarium promotes the preservation and identification of plant species, benefiting the Los Angeles community. For families and educators, the garden also features a K-12 program, offering educational resources that connect students to the natural world.

Events and Workshops

The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden hosts various events and workshops throughout the year. A notable upcoming event is a free guided tour on January 4, 2025, at 10 AM, which allows guests to delve deeper into the garden’s living collections. Additionally, hands-on workshops on container gardening and botanical-related art are regularly offered, enhancing visitors’ appreciation for the beauty and utility of plants.

Stay Connected

To keep visitors informed about the ever-changing landscape of the garden, a monthly newsletter is available for subscription. Visitors can stay updated on events, workshops, and garden developments, ensuring that they never miss out on the unique experiences this living museum has to offer.

The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a haven for those passionate about botany, education, and conservation. Its commitment to public accessibility and educational programming makes it a gem within the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles.