James Nobel Dwarf Conifer Garden Conifers of contrasting hues, shapes, and heights from many parts of the world form a collage of color and texture around a central pond popular with blue herons, egrets, and black phoebes. The mountainous region of Chiapas, Mexico, supports a remarkable variety of plant species, including colorful passion vines, fuchsias,, tree dahlias, and salvias. Plants with huge leaves, such as tree daisies and magnolias, are prominent in this habitat garden. The Cape Region has one of the world's highest densities of plant species. The Arthur L. Menzies Garden of California Native Plants provides a constant show of color.
Early spring brings California lilac and pink-flowering currant.
In summer, the strong pinks of clarkia and buckwheat contrast with the golden grasses. Southern and Southwestern Australia Members of the colorful protea and myrtle families highlight this developing garden. Eric Walther Succulent Garden Limestone walls form this warm terraced garden of plants that have adapted to extended periods of drought. An interpretive deck and pond along the John Muir Nature Trail help children and adults learn about plants and animals from four primary California coastal habitats. The trail is a natural outdoor classroom and observation spot.