Moorten Botanical Garden is a private arboretum created to share with everyone the beauty and extraordinary varieties of desert plants from around the world. Featuring desert trees and cacti from miniatures to giants. It is a classic collection of more than 3,000 varieties of plants designed in concentrated habitats along a natural trail. Also, a special exhibition of quite rare plants called “The World’s First Cactarium” (a word they coined in this profession). Thousands of specimens sourced from all over the world are represented, yet the one-acre gardens retain a homey intimacy. The species are categorized geographically, taking visitors through exhibits of real terrain.
Spend an hour exploring over a dozen arid biomes, such as the Baja California Peninsula, the South African-Succulent Karoo, the Mojave Desert and Mexico-Gran Desierto de Altar. Not limited to cacti, the gardens also display agave, bombax, and South African aloe plants. An interesting collection of rocks, crystals, fossils and gold-mining relics break up the flora and enhance the desert themes.
Guided tours of the gardens are available, but it’s recommended that you book ahead. The garden staff are happy to answer questions.
This popular, historical garden showplace has been the setting for many hundreds of romantic wedding ceremonies! Inquire about holding a wedding or event.
Plants are available for purchase from the nursery, but make sure you’re permitted to take them home before buying. Allow yourself an hour for a thorough visit.
The Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium is about 1.5 miles from downtown Palm Springs and there is on-street parking.
The gardens are closed Wednesdays and have a reduced schedule in summer.
Receive news and announcements from Palm Springs straight to your inbox
Moorten Botanical Garden - Visit Palm Springs
