Since 1970, San Diego Botanic Garden has served as a vibrant sanctuary where people and nature connect. This year, we proudly celebrate 55 years in the community. Marking more than just a number, this milestone is a testament to our enduring spirit, the strength of our supporters, and a vibrant future ahead.
Throughout the year, we’ll be hosting a variety of special events, programs, and other opportunities to celebrate with us while supporting nature. We look forward to honoring our past, celebrating our present, and cultivating the next chapter together!
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In the 1940s, the property that San Diego Botanic Garden sits on today was sold to Charles and Ruth Larabee, early conservationists and adventurers who brought their love for exotic plants and cultures to their homestead. Over a whirlwind period of seven years, they developed a stunningly beautiful, primarily low water landscape with over 200 different species of trees, shrubs, cacti and succulents, many from Mexico and South America.
After Ruth and Charles divorced in 1950, Ruth remained alone at the ranch until 1957, when she generously deeded her land to the County of San Diego as a park to preserve the habitat of the resident California quails. In 1970, the Garden officially opened its gates to the public as Quail Park.
June 1950; Ruth Larabee at the Groundbreaking of the Scout Hut, now Ecke Family Building
In 2009, the Garden underwent a name change to San Diego Botanic Garden to better reflect its status as a renowned botanical garden throughout the wider region. Thanks to the foresight of its founders, the Garden will continue to play a vital role in the growth and development of San Diego for years to come.
While the Garden has evolved through many seasons of change, our vision of being a beautiful place of community, learning, and exploration has remained steadfast. In addition to expanding our collections here at the Garden, we have grown to become a premiere institution for science and conservation, actively working on restoration and conservation projects with local, regional and global impacts.
Looking ahead, our Strategic Plan outlines three key areas of focus for the future: enhancing our physical gardens, expanding educational opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, and advancing science and conservation efforts to cultivate a greener world. These will continue to be the pillars that guide us for years to come.
Exciting growth lies ahead! Join our community by becoming a Member, supporting us as a Perennial, or exploring meaningful ways to give back to nature.
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