55 acres of plants from around the world
The garden opened in 1940 as Strybing Arboretum. Thanks to the fog and mild temperatures, it grows plants that struggle elsewhere in the United States, including one of the most important magnolia collections outside China and a high-elevation cloud forest from Central and South America. Other collections cover New Zealand, Chile, South Africa, Australia and California natives, plus a redwood grove and a garden of ancient plants.
What blooms when
Winter is magnolia season: the big trees bloom pink and white from January to March, when little else is flowering. Spring brings rhododendrons, California poppies and wildflowers. Summer is cool and green, and in fall the Japanese maples and the dahlias of nearby gardens add color. There is something in bloom in every month, which is rare in a temperate garden.
Free entry and admission
The garden opens daily at 7:30 a.m. Entry is free for everyone from 7:30 to 9 a.m., all day on the second Tuesday of each month, and on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. San Francisco residents with ID are always free. Non-resident adult tickets run about $15 to $17, depending on season, with discounts for seniors, children and families. Last entry is 6 p.m. in spring and summer and earlier in fall and winter.
Gates and getting around
The main gate is at Ninth Avenue and Lincoln Way, close to the N Judah and 7 bus; the north gate opens toward the Music Concourse and the Japanese Tea Garden. Paths are paved or packed gravel and mostly level. Allow one to two hours, and pick up a map at the gate. The Helen Crocker Russell Library inside is open Friday to Sunday.
Frequently asked questions
Is the San Francisco Botanical Garden free?
It is free for everyone daily from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and on the second Tuesday of each month, and always free for San Francisco residents with ID.
When do the magnolias bloom?
From about January to March, with the peak usually in February.
Where is the main entrance?
The main gate is at Ninth Avenue and Lincoln Way, near the N Judah and the 7 bus.
