Explore the Nature Gardens, our urban wildlife wonderland. Over 600 kinds of plants—including California natives and others from around the world—make a home for birds, butterflies, lizards, squirrels, and more!
What's in Season?
Plants and animals are up to something every single day in the Nature Gardens. While NHM remains closed, we encourage you to discover the sights and sounds of spring near you! Can you find these plants in your own gardens and neighborhoods?
You can also follow along with the Nature Gardens on Instagram for the latest tips, updates and activities!
Butterflies visit the stunning purple flowers of Queen’s wreath, an evergreen vine from Mexico and Central America.
Succulent aloes and perennial yarrow are colorful partners.
Before you can eat these blueberries, wait until they turn deep blue.
The dainty, pendant clusters of Marina madrone attract bees and hummingbirds.
The jewel-like flowers of California lilacs add beauty to dry gardens and support many kinds of beneficial insects.
This colorful combination of low-water plants attracts lots of pollinators for months on end.
Our pollinator meadow of California native plants is bursting with blossoms!
The tiny fruits of manzanitas (Spanish for little apples) are a valuable food source for birds and mammals.
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