A world-renowned 3.5-acre garden, housing a collection of succulents, both unique and beloved, as well as drought-tolerant plants from around the world. The Garden's founder, Ruth Bancroft, lived to be 109 and was a pioneer in drought-tolerant gardening. Open to the public year-round, the Garden showcases fabulous blooms during every season and highlights plant structure and texture in robust plantings. The Garden is a perfect venue for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and other special occasions.
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The mission of the Ruth Bancroft Garden, Inc. is to preserve this exceptional example of garden design and to continue to develop its collection of water-conserving plants for the education and enjoyment of the public. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is a foremost example of the art of garden design with drought-tolerant plants, and it is known as one of the finest dry gardens in the world.
Welcome to the Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery's online store, where you can find a variety of our favorite garden-related products that are perfect for souvenirs, gifts or for anyone who loves the Garden! Garden members receive 20% off their purchases!* Our inventory is always changing so check back often.
The Garden's mission is to preserve and develop Ruth's exceptional collection of water-conserving plants and stunning garden design for the enjoyment of the public, and to educate adults and children about the important role that water-wise plants play in creating a sustainable environment. Your donation to our Golden Barrel Fund will help us fulfill our important mission and continue building on Ruth's vision for the Garden. Over half of the Garden's annual operating costs are provided through memberships, contributions, and special fundraising social events.
Whether you're looking for a breath of fresh air, inspiration, or a fun day with loved ones, the Garden is the perfect getaway. Each season offers something new among the largest collection of succulents from around the world. Get lost in awe at the beauty of Ruth's work, and walk away feeling refreshed and renewed.
Reviews (9)
Claire Audette-Bauman
Jun 12, 2022
Absolutely stunning mix of cacti, succulents, trees and more, including some I've never seen anywhere else before! Would highly recommend coming here and spending an hour or two exploring the spectacular gardens. There are very helpful docents walking around to answer questions. Also adorable nursery with beautiful plants and pots at the entrance. Great place to bring kids, they even have garden bingo for them to play.
Vicky Vuong
May 07, 2022
Michelle M.
Dec 27, 2021
Radhe Lesny
Dec 18, 2021
What a gorgeous garden. I became a member and went to the garden for the lights during the holidays. I had been wanting to go for years and it didn't disappoint. My sister, daughter and I all couldn't stop saying how beautiful it was. Can't wait to go back during the day to see what that's like. Highly recommended.
Elizabeth Salen
Oct 15, 2021
This is a beautiful botanic garden made up primarily of succulents. Huge variety of plants. Nicely designed with places to stop and linger among the plants and trees. The koi pond is lovely. The nursery has a large selection of healthy succulents and cacti along with planters and other garden supplies. Go on a weekday if you can. The walkways are gravel so there are wheelchairs to borrow that have mountain bike tires. This is a friendly and welcoming place.
Fanny
Sep 25, 2021
Although I often see plants for dry weather on the streets, this place was still nice to visit. The garden has plants that are much bigger than what you would see on the streets. The front desk was helpful, they gave me a pamphlet for a self guided tour with a sheet inside to show what is in bloom. The paths throughout the garden are dirt and not paved, so your shoes might get dirty.
L. G.
Aug 07, 2021
Rae Zachary
May 03, 2021
A treasure in the middle of Walnut Creek. If you love succulents, you should visit. Different species are blooming all the time and there are knowledgeable docents wandering around the garden willing to answer any questions you may have. It's an inexpensive way to spend an hour or more soaking up some beauty!
Andrew Bachmann
Apr 14, 2021
This is both a garden which you pay to gain admission to, and a nursery where you can buy plants and related items. The garden has a nice size and a variety of plants. There's a koi fish pond. They give out a sheet to let you know which plants are blooming this month and where to find them. The garden is ok for children but you should keep and eye out that the littlest ones don't touch the plants as it may damage the plants or possibly the child. (A cactus for example) The nursery has some plants that are also in the garden so if you like them you can buy one and take it home!
They also have some other plants and equipment such as pots, gloves, tools for gardening. I also noticed that they have an event space which could be nice for a reception or party.
They also have some other plants and equipment such as pots, gloves, tools for gardening. I also noticed that they have an event space which could be nice for a reception or party.
