California’s unique environment makes it perfectly suited for growing a wide variety of plant life. One type that thrives in the state’s heat is xerophytes, or dry-growing plants. Cactuses, succulents and other vegetables that thrive without requiring access to regular rainfall are the raison d’etre of the Ruth Bancroft Garden, a 2.5 acre preserve that was the first garden in the United States to come under the preservation aegis of the Garden Conservancy. Bancroft, a teacher, created a unique and charming landscape that still dazzles today. With more than 2,000 plants growing there, from California natives to exotics imported from Africa, Australia and Chile, it’s a fascinating trip for any amateur botanist. If you like what you see, the on-site nursery holds regular plant sales so you can try to grow them at home. The Ruth Bancroft Garden also hosts a wide variety of educational programs and special events, from horticultural workshops to concerts by local bands.

Ruth Bancroft Garden
1552 Bancroft Road
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
(925) 944-9352
www.ruthbancroftgarden.org