LA’s Garden

Curated by Rosten Woo, LA’s Garden explores the hidden stories rooted in the beauty of Descanso Gardens. While our 150 acres offer a natural escape, they also hold a deep, living history. Discover who shaped our collections and landscapes, why they look the way they do, and how they continue to change. At Descanso, the history of the plants is the history of the people. From the ancient stewardship of indigenous communities to the legacies of Japanese-American nurserymen and visionary volunteers, every plant tells a story of human passion and resilience. The exhibition brings history to life by pairing archival maps, documents, and vintage photographs with contemporary artistic perspectives. The exhibition is open at the Boddy House from July 18–November 29, 2026, 10am–4pm daily. Entry to the Boddy House is included in the price of admission or membership. LA’s Garden is generously funded, in part, by Perenchio Foundation and an endowment from Heather Sturt Haaga and Paul G. Haaga, Jr.