San Francisco Botanical Garden is praised for one of the world’s largest collections of huge ancient flowering magnolia trees. The garden numbers nearly 100 out of 200 existing species. Gorgeous pink and white magnolia blossoms smell similar to tropical fruits.
Actually, 80% of all magnolias are native to Asia. The first magnolia was introduced to San Francisco Botanical Garden in 1939 by its first director Eric Walther. He went on planting different species of magnolia and in 1940, a famous Magnolia campbellii appeared there, also named “cup and saucer magnolia” owing to its flamboyant flowers' shape resembling a cup standing on a saucer. The blooming peak in San Francisco begins in mid-January and continues till March.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit San Francisco Botanical Garden for magnolia blossom viewing?
To witness San Francisco Botanical Garden's nearly 100 species of magnolia trees in full bloom, visit between mid-January to late March. During these months, you can see the famous Magnolia campbellii and other magnolia species. Show more
Where can I find the largest collection of ancient magnolia trees in the world?
One of the places to encounter one of the largest collections of ancient magnolia trees is San Francisco Botanical Garden. Nearly 100 of the 200 existing species of magnolia trees are planted here over the years by the garden's first director Eric Walther. The garden is also home to rhododendron species from China, Japan, and the Himalayas. Show more
What is the percentage of magnolia trees that are native to Asia?
Around 80% of the total magnolia tree species are native to Asia. These magnolia trees are one of the earliest flowering plants known to mankind. Out of nearly 100 species at San Francisco Botanical Garden, which holds one of the world's largest magnolia tree collections, some of the rarest species are on display. Show more
When was the first magnolia tree introduced to San Francisco Botanical Garden?
San Francisco Botanical Garden's first director, Eric Walther introduced the first magnolia tree in 1939. Years of planting different species of magnolia trees made the garden home to a vast collection of magnolia trees, which is considered a primary attraction now. Show more
What is the famous magnolia variety that appeared in San Francisco Botanical Garden in 1940 and why is it called "cup and saucer magnolia"?
Magnolia Campbellii, also known as "cup and saucer magnolia," was discovered in the Himalayas and brought to the US in the early 20th century. It's one of the rarest and most desirable magnolia species among gardening enthusiasts. The tree appeared in the San Francisco Botanical Garden in 1940 due to the garden's ambitious tree-planting policy. The tree's name comes from the cup and saucer-like shape of its flamboyantly shaped blossoms. Show more
