Your Guide to What's Blooming in Pasadena

Escape to Pasadena's botanical gardens, a serene haven showcasing a diverse array of flora from around the globe.

Wander through lush pathways, immersing yourself in vibrant colors and fragrant blooms. Whether seeking tranquility or inspiration, a visit here promises a rejuvenating experience in the heart of nature.

Spring

"When is the first day of spring?" The beginning of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere, formally known as the spring equinox occurs on different dates in March every year. Without looking at a calendar, we know it's time to grab a light sweater and embrace the fresh air when these flowers bloom.

Tulips at Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens plants 30,000 tulip bulbs in January to fully bloom in the springtime. Naturally grown in Central Asia, tulips arrived in the West in the 16th century. Find this spring staple in the Promenade.

California Poppy

Find our official state flower pop-up all-around Pasadena. Enter the free garden Arlington Pasadena, search all throughout Descanso Gardens, explore the hillsides at The Huntington, and take a stroll in front of the Colorado Bridge at Desiderio Park. You won't have to travel far to celebrate California Poppy Day on April 6th.

Cherry Blossom

Pink clouds in clear blue skies, cherry blossom season is here. Although the blossom appears in late March to early April, it remains a fan favorite at Descanso Gardens. It symbolizes Japanese culture in the Japanese Garden and throughout the Promenade. At The Huntington's Botanical Gardens, you can find the cherry tree in the Chinese and Japanese Gardens.

Lilac

Enjoy the breathtaking fragrance in Descanso Garden's very own Lilac Garden. At The Huntington, white and purple variations dress the entrance and visitor center. This California native can also be found by a waterfall in the Kallum Garden and in the Crescent Farm at the Los Angeles County Arboretum.

Roses

In late spring, it's time to stop and smell the roses. Pasadena is home to many rose gardens. The Huntington was created for the private enjoyment of Henry E. and Arabella Huntington. Roses are displayed amid elegant pergolas and arbors at the Los Angeles Arboretum. More than 1,600 of the fragrant plant is at Descanso Gardens. Lastly, the home of the Tournament of Roses and Wrigley Gardens allows visitors to picnic in the rose garden before and after their free hosted house tours starting May 1st.

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Descanso Gardens

Camellia

There is ample time to explore Pasadena to see Camellias as the flower boasts the longest blooming season from December to March. At Descanso Gardens, immerse yourself in the Camellia Forest to admire Japanese camellias. The Huntington celebrates variations of the flower at their annual Camellia show in February. Then snap photos by the pretty petal display at the Los Angeles Arboretum in the Queen Ann Cottage.

Azalea

We like to think azaleas are similar to the vibrant city of Pasadena. As azaleas come in all shapes, sizes and many colors, Pasadena's diversity in cuisines and experiences make both stand out from the rest. Azaleas also offer an extensive variety of cultivars which ensures it's suitable for every preference and gardening need. Whatever your passion, there's an activity for you in the city. Nature lovers can view azaleas all around Botanical Gardens in Pasadena.

Iris

Another spring favorite, these attractive flowers are named after the ancient Greek goddess of the rainbow. Seek irises throughout the season at any garden in Pasadena to add pep to your spring step. At Descanso Gardens, you'll experience the brightest mood as irises are found in the grand Rose Garden.

Wisteria

Explore an enchanting canopy of wisteria blooming in various gardens inside The Huntington. Catch stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and fragrant florets across the Meadowbrook Garden at the Los Angeles Arboretum. Whichever botanical garden you venture, the magic of wisterias enhance the beauty and tranquility in Pasadena's lush urban oasis.

California Natives

The beauty of Southern California native floras are represented in Pasadena. Visitors and pets are welcomed to stroll through the public Arlington Garden, to celebrate Southern California's mediterranean climate. Native plant advocacy is also cultivated in the charming California Gardens at Descanso Gardens and The Huntington. The Water Conservation Garden at the Los Angeles Arboretum showcases mediterranean plants that add to landscape design and water stewardship.

Magnolia

Notable for their sweet fragrances, magnolias reach peak bloom February and early March. Over 60 magnolia cultivars are highlights in the Los Angeles Arboretum's plant collection. 65 of magnolia species are the focus at The Huntington. Some the pink variations of magnolia bulbs emerge throughout Descanso Gardens. Wherever you are, you'll appreciate these majestic flowering trees in Pasadena.

Trumpet Trees

Pretty pink and bright golden trumpet trees add to the striking views of a sunny spring day. Formally known as Tabebuia, these trees are recognized by the name "trumpet tree" because the elongated flower resembles the classical instrument. Spot these dazzling displays at The Huntington in the parking lot, Rose Garden, and Subtropical Slope. Both golden and pink trumpet trees are also displayed in the Rose Garden and the entrance at Descanso Gardens. At the Los Angeles Arboretum, these tall trumpet trees touch the sky along the Tallac Knoll walkway and Peacock Pavilion.