West Hollywood
Last Updated on Mar 26, 2025
Nestled within UCLA, the Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a lush, peaceful escape featuring over 3,000 plant species. Visitors can stroll through diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to desert landscapes. The garden’s cactus and succulent collection showcases rare and exotic specimens. The Subtropical Woodlands section highlights plants from Mediterranean climates worldwide. A Japanese-inspired fern dell provides a tranquil space with shady ferns and small waterfalls. The medicinal plant garden features herbs historically used for healing. The butterfly and pollinator garden attracts colorful butterflies and hummingbirds. The stream and pond area is home to turtles and koi fish. Guided tours offer insights into plant conservation and UCLA’s research. Photography and sketching opportunities abound in this picturesque setting. Seasonal plant sales allow visitors to take home unique botanical specimens.
Mildred Esther Mathias Hassler was a pioneering American botanist, conservationist, and educator who made significant contributions to plant taxonomy, horticulture, and tropical ecology. Born in Sappington, Missouri, she earned her Ph.D. from Washington University in St. Louis at just 22, focusing on the carrot family (Umbelliferae). Her research, often conducted in remote regions, led to the classification of numerous plant species and the naming of the genus Mathiasella in her honor. In 1947, she joined UCLA, where she became a professor and later the director of the university’s botanical garden, which now bears her name. A strong advocate for conservation, she played a key role in establishing the UC Natural Reserve System and the Organization for Tropical Studies. Throughout her career, Mathias worked to bridge botany and public education, co-hosting a gardening show, leading natural history tours, and promoting ecotourism. Her dedication earned numerous accolades, including leadership roles in scientific societies and the Liberty Hyde Bailey Medal for horticultural contributions. Even in her late years, she continued to lead expeditions worldwide, leaving behind a lasting legacy in botany and environmental conservation.
Nestled within the UCLA campus, the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is a serene fusion of art and nature. Managed by the UCLA Hammer Museum, this open-air gallery features more than 70 sculptures by renowned artists, making it one of the most distinguished sculpture gardens in the country. The landscape design complements the sculptures, creating a tranquil environment where visitors can appreciate art in a natural setting. Whether you’re exploring the garden for artistic inspiration or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this unique space showcases the harmony between human creativity and the beauty of the outdoors.
The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden, located on the southeastern edge of the UCLA campus, is a lush oasis that serves as both a research facility and a living museum. With a diverse collection of global plant species, the garden plays a vital role in education, offering hands-on learning experiences for students and researchers. Open to the public, it welcomes visitors from across Los Angeles and beyond, providing a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of botany. Monthly guided tours allow guests to delve deeper into the ecological and cultural significance of the plants, fostering a greater appreciation for biodiversity and conservation.
Designed to promote health and nutrition awareness, the Medicinal Herb Garden at the Center for Health Sciences is an educational resource funded by the UCLA Healthy Campus Initiative. This carefully curated space features a variety of native California plants known for their medicinal properties, offering insights into natural remedies and sustainable wellness practices. Students, faculty, and visitors alike can explore the garden to learn about the historical and modern uses of herbs in healthcare while enjoying a peaceful and green environment in the heart of the university.
Located at the Ronald Reagan Medical Center, this Medicinal Herb Garden is part of UCLA’s Healthy Campus Initiative, designed to educate visitors on the healing properties of plants. More than just a garden, this space encourages discussion on traditional medicine and the role of botanicals in holistic health. The garden serves as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public, bridging the gap between scientific research and the natural world. Its tranquil setting provides a moment of respite, reinforcing the connection between wellness and nature.
The Living Amphitheater at Sunset Canyon Recreation Center is UCLA’s first large-scale edible garden, developed through the collaboration of students and the Healthy Campus Initiative. This innovative outdoor space combines sustainable gardening with education, providing a venue for workshops, food preparation, and environmental learning. Overlooking the amphitheater seating, the garden is seamlessly integrated into the landscape, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. A hub for hands-on engagement, it fosters a sense of community and encourages sustainable living practices among students and visitors.