Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens were started in 1961. Ernest Schoefer and his wife wanted to start their own gardens, so Ernest worked to get a supply of water that could help feed the plants. He was especially a fan of Rhododendrons. It took until 1966 for the gardens to be completed and available to the public. By 1992, the gardens were sold to California Coastal Conservancy making it part of the Mendocino Coast Recreation and Park District.

The gardens have more than rhododendrons, though that is the most popular flower for its fragrance and beautiful blossoms. Rhododendrons live in southeast Asia and the Himalayas, growing well in warm rainy climates. They also need little shade, which is why northern California is perfect because it is foggy and a coastal climate.

The perennial garden is another delight with bulbs, flowers, and grasses which bloom in spring and throughout the summer. Heaths were collected in another section of the gardens offering camellias and some endangered plants. Admission is $10 for the general public. Hours of operation are March through October 9am to 5pm and November through February 9am to 4pm. There are possible discounts and membership options.