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Sonoma Botanical Garden presents The Bonsai Show: Wood and Stone
On view January 10 – March 30, 2025
(September 25, 2024, Glen Ellen, CA) The contemplative beauty of bonsai returns to Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) this winter with The Bonsai Show: Wood and Stone, an indoor exhibit featuring 20 works by the skilled artisans of the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society (REBS) and the addition of a stunning display of suiseki viewing stones.
Suiseki is the Japanese art of stone appreciation. Small, naturally occurring ‘water stones,’ shaped by time and the elements, are placed on delicate wooden stands or daiza, often resembling mountains, waterfalls, and other natural scenes. They are appreciated for their intrinsic beauty and the feelings they evoke. The stones on display are from the remarkable collection of Jerry Braswell, a California woodworker who specializes in crafting bonsai and suiseki stands.
The stones are a natural complement to the meticulously shaped bonsai trees on display. Bonsai is a Japanese term meaning ‘planted in a container.’ The art form, originating from an ancient Chinese horticultural practice, penjing, and later redeveloped under the influence of Japanese Zen Buddhism, involves careful pruning of roots and training of branches to create exquisite, miniature replicas of full-grown trees. The aesthetic considerations are many including branch spacing, the scale of leaves to trunk, viewing angles, the choice of container, and more—all while working with the plant’s inherent nature. Sometimes many decades (and even hundreds!) of years old, these diminutive masterpieces are a testament to the patience, dedication, and craftsmanship of the practitioners of this ancient art form that enjoys robust interest around the world today as artists fuse traditional techniques with contemporary flair. The work of six, Sonoma County-based members of REBS, including George Haas (Petaluma), Ivan Lukrich (Santa Rosa), Alan Murakami (Sebastopol), Art Kopecky (Sebastopol), Diane Matzen (Petaluma), and Michael Murtaugh (Santa Rosa), will be on display at the Garden—from tiny shohin bonsai, small enough to hold in one hand, to grand trees up to 40 inches. Bonsai sculpted from Japanese black pine, Chinese elm, and Japanese maples will be joined by a large number created with California natives including redwoods, junipers, and pygmy cypress.
“Placing a suiseki viewing stone near a bonsai tree can enhance the overall aesthetic impact,” says George Haas, bonsai artist and exhibit organizer with REBS. “The stone can provide a solid, grounding element, while the tree adds a vigorous, living component. They complement each other beautifully, creating a harmonious and balanced representation of nature in miniature forms.”
The Garden is augmenting the display with engaging, interactive elements including a Zen rock garden area that visitors are invited to rake and a decorative torii, the traditional Japanese gate found at many Shinto shrines. Exhibition signage throughout the indoor gallery illuminates the roots of this timeless practice and digs into the science that is critical to the survival of these tiny trees.
Bonsai demonstrations and interpretive tours will be offered throughout the run of the exhibit. Led by knowledgeable Redwood Empire Bonsai Society volunteers, these programs will take a deeper dive into the practical care and maintenance of bonsai as well as the artistic process. They include demonstrations on repotting (January 11); styling (February 8); collecting (March 8); and suiseki (March 22). There will also be a special tea ceremony demonstration led by Sonoma Mountain Zen Center.
“We are overjoyed to partner once again with the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society to share this intricate and enduring horticultural art with our visitors,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “The Garden’s Asian Woodland is a full-grown forest of many of the bonsai trees on view. A visit to The Bonsai Show with a walk in our quiet woods after offers a sublimely peaceful and meditative way to start the new year.”
About the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society
The Redwood Empire Bonsai Society was founded in 1981 for bonsai enthusiasts. The club is a nonprofit organization for the purpose of educating and making the public aware of the ancient living art form of Japanese bonsai. The club promotes the bonsai art through the conduct of monthly meetings, expert demonstrations, workshops for all skill levels, newsletters, and its annual bonsai show. Meetings are the fourth Thursday of the month, 7:30 to 9:30pm with some exceptions. The annual bonsai show is the fourth weekend in August and an opportunity for members to display their specimens. Free admission and parking with daily demonstrations, a silent auction, and fun for all ages. Join the global celebration of bonsai on the second Saturday in May. World Bonsai Day is sponsored by the World Bonsai Friendship Federation.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
General Information
Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $15 adults; $12 65+; $8 youth 5-17, teachers, and active military; children 4 and under free. The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance. Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
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Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Photo by Daniel Perales
Photo by Daniel Perales
Photo by Daniel Perales
Photo by Daniel Perales
Framing fall at Sonoma Botanical Garden
(Glen Ellen, CA, August 12, 2024) Experience the vibrant colors of fall, the richness of the harvest, and the mysteries of the night sky at Sonoma Botanical Garden this autumn. With its one-of-a-kind Asian Woodland full of a gorgeous array of various deciduous trees and perennials – many of which are rare and endangered – fall color in the Garden is unlike any other in the North Bay. And this year, the Garden offers numerous ways to experience the majesty of earth and sky during this special season including star parties, guided fall foliage walks, sunset concerts, meditation hikes, holiday centerpiece crafting, and more.
“As the seasons change, the Garden transforms into a vivid autumn canvas, especially within our unique Asian Woodland with its many rare species,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “This year, we’re thrilled to offer a range of public programs for visitors to fully experience the season’s beauty Join us in celebrating fall’s richness in Sonoma Valley.”
The Garden is abundant with must-see fall color. Early fall sees burgundy hues speckling the leaves of the Amur Maple (Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala); large, golden rose hips forming on the Chestnut rose (Rosa roxburghii); the Garden’s cabernet vines heavy with purple fruit; and the fan-like leaves of Ginkgo biloba shifting from green to luminous gold.
By November, the Garden’s many species of maple become a showstopping sea of warm red, orange, yellow, and even purple hues. The Japanese Cherry Birch (Betula grossa) sports classic fall color with a solid halo of amber leaves, while the Large-leafed Dogwood (Cornus macrophylla) develops otherworldly pink, branching, spindly infructescence.
Sometimes as late as December, the Five-Lobed Maple (Acer pentaphyllum) is one of the last to change with its thin palmate leaves flashing crimson and orange. Beautyberry (Callicarpa japonica) boasts bright purple clusters of berries, contrasting vividly with its large yellowing leaves.
Trees like the unusual conifer Golden Larch (Pseudolarix amabilis), that ignites suddenly in an amber abundance, can be dazzling, but fleeting, so visitors are encouraged to follow the Garden on social media for alerts.
To celebrate the season, the Garden is offering a number of special programs to frame visitors’ experience of fall. Acoustic Sunsets continues each Wednesday evening through October 30 with live music in the outdoor amphitheater, wine tasting, and more. Visitors can register to attend a star party on November 8 with astronomers from the Robert Ferguson Observatory. Guided fall color walks with the Garden’s curator or its volunteer docents take place regularly throughout the season. Professional photographer Daniel Perales leads monthly photo walks to provide tips on the best way to capture the beauty of the season. Sonoma Yoga offers guided meditation hikes each month to connect nature, mind, and body. On November 30, the Garden offers a chance to craft a stunning holiday centerpiece that will last throughout the season.
Fall also features the Garden’s inaugural fundraising dinner, Garden Gala: A Stellar Affair on October 5. Tickets and tables are available for this elegant evening in the Garden’s picturesque poolside garden with local wines and cuisine, live music, and stargazing with astronomers.
More information and registration is available for all programs on the Garden’s online calendar at sonomabg.org.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
General Information
Open 10am – 5pm daily, and Wednesdays through October 30, 2024 until 8pm for Acoustic Sunsets. Admission is $15 adults; $12 65+; $8 youth 5-17, teachers, and active military; children 4 and under free. The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance. Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
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Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Sonoma Botanical Garden’s popular Ribbit Exhibit extended!
The Garden’s frog-filled adventure now continues through September 29, 2024
(Glen Ellen, CA, July 31, 2024) In response to overwhelming visitor enthusiasm, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is extending its presentation of Ribbit Exhibit through September 29, 2024. The whimsical, family-friendly exhibit of 23 larger-than-life frog characters found throughout the Garden opened in April 2024 and was originally set to close at the end of August but will now remain on view for an additional month. This is the first time the nationally-touring exhibit has been on the west coast.
“We are delighted by the remarkable response to Ribbit Exhibit since its launch,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “We’ve experienced a phenomenal 40-50% growth in attendance, admission revenue, and membership year-over-year. This exhibit has not only expanded our family audience but also boosted membership and solidified our status as a premier destination both locally and beyond.”
Reviewers on Google agree, calling Ribbit Exhibit “a hit.” “It’s a lovely garden. Kids had an amazing time,” wrote one.
Each with their own name and story, the enchanting human-sized sculptures by North Carolina-based artist Andy Cobb are thoughtfully handcrafted from copper, colored with natural patina. Visitors can find them sitting in trees, playing jazz, enjoying a cup of coffee on a park bench, and more.
The chance to win a prize for finding all 23 frogs using a special Frog Finder map has proven to be especially popular with families. “It’s like an Easter egg hunt through the Garden, and families are loving it,” says Perales. “Seeing the delight on children’s faces when they open the treasure box of prizes is joyful. This activity has inspired visitors to explore every nook and cranny of the Garden, making their experience even more magical and memorable.”
A robust roster of public programs associated with Ribbit Exhibit continues as well. On August 11, families won’t want to miss the final Sunday Funday of the summer with face painting, arts & crafts, children’s music, family yoga, and more. Acoustic Sunsets continues through October every Wednesday evening with live music and activities for the young and the young at heart. Visitors can find more information about these programs, guided tours, and more on the Garden’s website.
Support for Ribbit the Exhibit includes Early Childhood Learning Sponsor PNC Bank, Partnering Sponsor Colette Clowes, and Supporting Sponsors Maud Hallin and Carol Baker. Presenting Media Sponsors are Press Democrat & Sonoma Magazine, with Supporting Media Sponsors North Bay Bohemian, KZST 100.1, Froggy 92.9, and Kenwood Press.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
General Information
Open 10am – 5pm daily, and Wednesdays through October 30, 2024 until 8pm for Acoustic Sunsets. Admission is $15 adults; $12 65+; $8 youth 5-17, teachers, and active military; children 4 and under free. The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance. Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
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Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Sonoma Botanical Garden presents
Sunday Funday
Sundays, June 9, July 14 & August 11, 2024; 1-4pm
Included with admission and free for Garden members
(Glen Ellen, CA, May 29, 2024) Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) invites families to hop on over this summer for Sunday Funday. The monthly program, sponsored by PNC Bank, features loads of activities for kids like face painting, arts and crafts with Art Escape’s Art Van Gogh, family yoga with Sonoma Yoga, Music Time with Megan, lawn games, and more.
Sunday Funday is being offered as part of the Garden’s frog-filled summer adventure Ribbit Exhibit, a whimsical, family-friendly presentation of more than 20 larger-than-life frog characters placed throughout the Garden. Each with their own name and story, the enchanting human-sized sculptures by artist Andy Cobb can be found sitting in trees, playing jazz, enjoying a cup of coffee on a park bench, and more. Families can win a prize for completing a scavenger hunt using a special frog finder map.
“One of the most critical functions of a botanical garden is access to nature for families,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “Providing an opportunity for children and their families to have fun and play together in a comfortable natural setting can inspire a lifelong love of the outdoors and helps future generations understand, protect, and celebrate life on the planet. We are grateful to PNC Bank, our Early Childhood Learning Sponsor, for their support of this worthy endeavor.”
“At PNC, we know that helping children get a great start in school and life is one of the best investments we can make here in Northern California and across the country,” says Megan Schoettmer, PNC regional president for Northern California. “This exhibit at Sonoma Botanical Garden combines learning, families, and fun in a nature-filled setting, and we’re proud to support that.”
A monthly schedule of Sunday Funday activities can be found on the Garden’s website. Visit https://sonomabg.org/visit/sunday-funday/.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
About PNC
PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.
General Information
The Garden is open 10am – 5pm daily and until 8pm Wednesdays. Admission is $15 adults; $12 for 65+; $8 youth 5-17, teachers, and active military; children 4 and under free. The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance. Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Sonoma Botanical Garden presents
Acoustic Sunsets
Sonoma Botanical Garden presents
Acoustic Sunsets
Experience stunning sunsets over Sonoma Valley accompanied by live music, fine wines, family friendly activities, and even your furry companion
Wednesdays, May 1-October 30, 2024; 5-8pm
Included with admission and free for Garden members
(Glen Ellen, CA, April 16, 2024) Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) extends its hours every Wednesday this summer with special activities for all ages including live music in the amphitheater, a chance to sip and stroll with varietals from local wine partners, lawn games, and other family friendly activities. Visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic, and for the first time ever, the Garden is also welcoming well-behaved, leashed dogs during these special evening hours.
“Sunsets are spectacular from the high Valley vistas of the Garden — so much so that we felt this special experience needed to be shared with the community,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “And what more perfect way to bring people together on a warm summer evening than music? Our lovely outdoor amphitheater offers a unique venue to enjoy live music while taking in the views with friends and family. And we do mean the whole family! Many of us at the Garden share our homes and lives with beloved dogs, and we are very excited to welcome the community’s pups to our woodland trails for the very first time!”
Music lovers won’t want to miss the diverse musical lineup of local and Bay Area talent scheduled to perform on the outdoor amphitheater stage. With a new act each week, the ever changing musical program offers something for every musical taste. On May 1, the inaugural season kicks off with Dee CoCo Johnson, a talented vocalist who will definitely get the party going. The following week, Sonoma County native Jacob Phillip Benning brings his soulful music for hopeful romantics to the Garden stage. Also scheduled for May are singer/songwriter Michelle Lambert, local favorites Cork Pullers, and Petaluma-based acoustic musician Clay Bell. The monthly schedule of performers will be available on the Garden’s website.
This year’s inaugural Acoustic Sunsets musical line up is the creation of Michael John Ahern, a Garden Volunteer and Sonoma-based recording artist and musical producer. Ahern also serves as the Entertainment Director for the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival and Sonoma Golf Club Summer Music Series, now in its fourth season. Ahern is volunteering his time as Director of Entertainment for Acoustic Sunsets. “I have been involved in bringing live music and community together for most of my adult life,” says Ahern.“ The Garden is a magical place, and I am pleased as punch to be lending a helping hand to the inaugural season of this unique community event.”
Local wineries will be on hand to offer a free taste of local terroir including the Garden’s own vineyard partner La Prenda Wines, as well as Highway 12 Winery, Bar None’s Canyon, and more. Visitors can pack a picnic, grab a made to order Garden Box from the Glen Ellen Market, or pick up a gourmet pizza from the Glen Ellen Star.
Attending families will be enchanted by Ribbit Exhibit, a whimsical presentation of more than 20 larger-than-life frog characters, each with their own name and story, placed in vignettes throughout the Garden. Visitors will find the eye-catching sculptures by artist Andy Cobb sitting in trees, playing jazz, enjoying a cup of coffee on a park bench, and more.
For more information, visit https://sonomabg.org/visit/acoustic-sunsets/.
The Garden thanks Acoustic Sunsets media partner Kenwood Press.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
General Information
Beginning May 1, the Garden is open 10am – 5pm daily and until 8pm Wednesdays. Admission is $15 adults; $12 for 65+; $8 youth 5-17, teachers, and active military; children 4 and under free. The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance. Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Sonoma Botanical Garden presents
Ribbit Exhibit
A fantastical, frog-filled adventure for the whole family
On view: April 5 to August 31, 2024
Glen Ellen, CA, Feb, 2024
Sonoma Botanical Garden leaps into spring with Ribbit Exhibit, a whimsical, family-friendly presentation of more than 23 larger-than-life frog characters placed in vignettes throughout the Garden. Each with their own name and story, the enchanting human-sized sculptures by artist Andy Cobb include Zenny meditating on a leaf on the Garden’s Pond, Bentley and his tortoise friend Tortuga ambling along the California Oaks Trail, dapper Floyd and his elegant partner Grace cutting the rug amongst the flowers, and many others.
“We are pleased to be bringing this delightful, nationally touring exhibit to Sonoma Botanical Garden for its west coast debut,” says Jeannie Perales, SBG Executive Director. “Ribbit Exhibit is a playful and interactive way to encourage Garden guests to explore our lovely woodland garden where paths and streams wend their way through a unique collection of Asian and California native plants. Artist Andy Cobb’s imaginative work is a singularly fun showcase of the intersection of art and nature and is sure to be a ribbet-ing experience for young and old alike!”
The 23 eye-catching sculptures, each 4 to 6 feet tall, are thoughtfully handcrafted by the North Carolina-based Cobb from copper, colored with natural patina. Visitors will find them sitting in trees, playing jazz, enjoying a cup of coffee on a garden bench, and more.
“I think the driving force behind this whole thing has been making people smile,” says Cobb. “A lot of people have, after the shows, told me how happy Ribbit makes them, how they smile, how they laugh.”
A robust roster of public programs such as guided tours, live music, family scavenger hunts, and family fun days are planned while the exhibit is on view (see below for details). “Ribbit Exhibit provides the Garden with the opportunity to engage visitors of all ages in a variety of experiences that highlight the diversity and beauty of the natural world,” says Perales. “We encourage guests to hop on to our calendar often for these special offerings throughout the spring and summer!”
Support for Ribbit Exhibit includes Early Childhood Learning Sponsor PNC Bank, Partnering Sponsor Colette Clowes, and Supporting Sponsors Maud Hallin, Carol Baker, and Bank of America. The exhibition is funded, in part, by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors/Sonoma County Supervisor Susan Gorin. Presenting Media Sponsors are Press Democrat & Sonoma Magazine, with Supporting Media Sponsors North Bay Bohemian, KZST 100.1 & Froggy 92.9.
Public Programs
Sunday Fundays
June 9, July 14 & August 11, 2024; 1-4pm
Free for members and included with admission.
Hop on over for an afternoon of family fun in the beauty of the Garden with face painting, arts and crafts with Art Escape’s Art Van Gogh, family yoga with Sonoma Yoga, Music Time with Megan, and lawn games. Families can win prizes for completing a froggy-themed scavenger hunt, enjoy frog-tastic story time, and more.
Acoustic Sunsets
Wednesdays, May 1-October 30, 2024; 5-8pm
Free for members and included with admission.
The Garden extends its hours every Wednesday this summer with special activities for all ages including live music in the amphitheater, lawn games, and other family friendly activities. Bring a picnic and Fido too as the Garden is welcoming well behaved, leashed dogs during these special evening hours.
About Andy Cobb
What started as a hobby now keeps metal sculptor Andy Cobb hopping six days a week in his studio where frogs in tutus and tuxedos are the norm. He began by making realistic game fish out of copper sheet and learned to coax iridescent colors from the metal using heat. What started as a small show in his hometown of Wilmington, North Carolina exploded into Ribbit the Exhibit, which has been shown in more than two dozen public gardens across the country.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
For more information, please visit sonomabg.org.
General Information
Starting May 1-October 30, 2024, the Garden will be open daily 10am – 5pm, with extended evening hours from 5-8pm. Admission prices starting May 1st, 2024 are as follows: $15 adults; $12 seniors 65+; $8 youth 5-17 years old, teachers and active military; FREE for children 4 and under.
The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program enabling $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance.
Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
sonomabg.org
Sonoma Botanical Garden presents
California Native Visitor Center
Pioneering Sonoma County partnership to develop fire and water wise CA native plant demonstration garden at Sonoma Botanical Garden
January 24, 2024, Glen Ellen, CA
Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG), in partnership with Sonoma Ecology Center and Habitat Corridor Project, proudly announces a dynamic, new collaboration to design and establish a leading-edge California native plant demonstration garden at SBG. The project aims to create a learning landscape surrounding SBG’s Welcome Center to showcase the beauty and practicality of native flora in safeguarding against wildfires, promoting water conservation, and sustaining local wildlife.
The initiative represents a significant stride towards sustainable landscape design and environmental stewardship in Sonoma County.
“We are thrilled to embark on this innovative project alongside Sonoma Ecology Center and Habitat Corridor Project, generously supported, in part, by the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation,” says Jeannie Perales, Executive Director, SBG. “This important collaboration leverages the expertise and resources of three esteemed regional organizations dedicated to conservation, education, and ecological resilience and builds significantly on SBG’s recently opened California Oaks Trail and the Garden’s enhanced mission to inspire an appreciation of the beauty and value of California native plants alongside its Asian plant collection.”
“The Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation is supporting Sonoma Botanical Garden’s new focus that will connect more people with nature and educate them about the beauty, resilience, and importance of our native plant species,” Says Delle Maxwell, Foundation President.
The envisioned garden, which has recently broken ground and will be unveiled to the public in stages over the next several years, will offer visitors an immersive experience to explore and understand the vital role native plants can play in the future of California gardening, demonstrating practical techniques for homeowners, landscape professionals, and community planners to create fire-resistant and water-efficient landscapes that support biodiversity. The garden will also serve as an educational hub with public programs for all ages and special tours designed to deepen the public’s appreciation of California flora.
“Botanical gardens are places of beauty, respite, and appreciation for the natural world,” says Bob Schneider, Design & Implementation Project Manager, Sonoma Ecology Center. “They can also serve as sites for biodiversity and conservation. The Sonoma Ecology Center is excited to work alongside Habitat Corridor Project in growing the Sonoma Botanical Garden’s California native plant collection. California is a biodiversity hotspot, and Sonoma Valley, in particular, is home to a lot of plant diversity. We are excited to showcase more of our region’s native plants, as well as demonstrate fire-wise landscape design principles.”
“This demonstration garden is a unique opportunity to show plant enthusiasts and the public how to use local plants to create a sense of place in the California landscape,” adds April Owens, Executive Director, Habitat Corridor Project. “We are honored to team with Sonoma Ecology Center to diversify the native plant collection at SBG with both plants that are easy to find in the nursery trade and ones that are rare and protected in the Sonoma Valley. The space will provide a substantial amount of habitat garden to support biodiversity where it has been lost in the Sonoma Valley and throughout California. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate for landowners and others the value of adding larger California native shrubs to support butterflies, bees, and birds; the benefit of swales and rain gardens to collect and filter water; and plant design for defensible space.”
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
sonomabg.org
About Sonoma Ecology Center
Since 1990, Sonoma Ecology Center has worked with the community to identify and lead actions that achieve and sustain ecological health in Sonoma Valley.
sonomaecologycenter.org
About Habitat Corridor Project
Our mission is to create and promote California native plant restoration gardens in the urban environment. Our vision actions are to design and install California native plant focused landscapes replacing traditional water intensive landscapes and restoring wildlife habitat to support biodiversity. We also educate and inspire the public with our experience including talks, garden tours, volunteer days, signage, and downloadable free plans. habitatcorridorproject.org
About Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation
Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation powers people who explore and ask, teach and try, conserve and connect, create and captivate. Our funding supports individual scientists, teachers, conservationists, and creators whose diverse perspectives enable us to discover new things about ourselves and our world.
Maxwell-Hanrahan.org
Visiting Sonoma Botanical Garden
General Information
Starting May 1-October 30, 2024, the Garden will be open daily 10am – 5pm, with extended evening hours from 5-8pm. Admission prices starting May 1st, 2024 are as follows: $15 adults; $12 seniors 65+; $8 youth 5-17 years old, teachers and active military; FREE for children 4 and under.
The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance.
Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
Photo by Daniel Perales Studios
Photo by Laura Bassett
Photo by Laura Bassett
Photo by Laura Bassett
Photo by Kate Rabuck
Photo by Laura Bassett
Photo by Sonoma Ecology Center and Habitat Corridor Project
Sonoma Botanical Garden’s rare magnolias at peak bloom in coming weeks!!
(March 6, 2024, Glen Ellen, CA) Sonoma Botanical Garden is home to over 40 unique species of Asian magnolias, many of which are endangered in their native habitat. In the coming two to three weeks, approximately March 11-31, more than a dozen of these spectacular trees and shrubs will erupt in a stunning riot of pink and white. With often large, saucer-shaped flowers emerging on bare branches, the winter magnolia bloom is one of the Garden’s most breathtaking highlights of the year.
“There are towering trees and diminutive shrubs with foliage that ranges from glossy to felty, and elegant flowers that nod, hiding their bright red stamens, to luscious 2 foot-wide, giant flowers pointed to the sky,” says Michael Wenzel, Living Collections Curator.
The most plentiful in March is the Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata) with 15 specimens planted throughout the Garden. This smaller statured species blooms just before the leaves emerge. Its thin white to pink petals evoke a star shape, leading to its name. These plants started as wild seed collected in central Japan and have been part of several studies examining the genetics of magnolias.
Another March bloomer is the Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus) with skyward facing white flowers often blooming just as the glossy new leaves are emerging from their winter buds. Native to Japan and South Korea, the specimens at the Garden are representatives of wild genetics from multiple locations across Japan.
The often fragrant, evergreen Smooth Leaf Magnolia (Magnolia laevifolia) from SW China can be quite floriferous with many two-inch flowers developing along the sides of the spreading branches. Even before the flowers open, the felty brown buds arranged along the stem are particularly eye catching.
While peak bloom is especially photo-worthy, Wenzel assures visitors that there are still wonderful opportunities to see blooming magnolias at the Garden well into spring, including the most asked about species at the Garden, the Japanese Big Leaf Magnolia (Magnolia obovata). After the enormous leaves have developed, often longer than 2 feet, the equally massive, white petaled flowers open in April.
Visitors are encouraged to follow the Garden’s social media channels for notable bloom alerts.
On Sunday, March 17 from 2-3:30pm, the Garden offers a special magnolia tour with an expert guide. Tickets are $27 and include Garden admission. More information at https://support.sonomabg.org/products/magnolia-tour.
About Sonoma Botanical Garden
Founded in 1987, Sonoma Botanical Garden (SBG) is a woodland experience where East meets West by celebrating the beauty and importance of Asian and California native plants. Situated in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, SBG’s 67 acres is home to a unique Asian woodland, a California native oak savanna, and a Cabernet vineyard. Its mission is to inspire an appreciation and understanding of the beauty and value of Asian and California native plants and to promote their conservation in natural habitats and gardens.
sonomabg.org
Visiting Sonoma Botanical Garden
Starting May 1-October 30, 2024, the Garden will be open daily 10am – 5pm, with extended evening hours from 5-8pm. Admission prices starting May 1st, 2024 are as follows: $15 adults; $12 seniors 65+; $8 youth 5-17 years old, teachers and active military; FREE for children 4 and under.
The Garden is a proud participant in the Museums for All program with qualifying individuals receiving $3 admissions. Groups of 8 or more are asked to make a reservation in advance.
Visit at 12841 Hwy 12, Glen Ellen, CA. Call 707-996-3166 or email info@sonomabg.org for questions.
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Media Contact:
Nina Sazevich
Sonoma Botanical Garden PR Consultant
415-752-2483
pr@sonomabg.org
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Photo by: Daniel Perales Studios
Photo by: Laura Bassett
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Contact Us
707-996-3166
info@sonomabg.org
PO Box 232, Glen Ellen, CA 95442