CSUN Botanical Gardens - (Jess/Stephen Herr)

Description:

Physical description of the site

The botanical gardens are located on the campus of California State University, Northridge, between the Biology Department and the student union. It is roughly 1.5 acres and houses 1,200 plant species from various regions. CSUN students routinely access this resource to study biological principles, and plant ecology, morphology, and physiology.

Explanation of ownership/management

The botanical garden is owned and operated by California State University, Northridge.

History and Vision

The Botanical Garden was originally dedicated in 1959 with California native plants. Now in addition to the native species, other palms, herbs, and New Zealand plants can be observed. The vision for the garden is that it will be expanded to meet the needs of more advanced courses and be an even more valuable asset to the community.

Access

The garden is open to the public and allows student groups to visit free of charge. Tours are between 20-40 minutes but group size is limited to 20 people per guide. Tours should be reserved 4 weeks in advance and attendees should expect to pay for parking.

Normal hours of operation are Monday-Friday 8:00am - 4:45pm.

Other

There are free horticulture and gardening classes four times a year, and volunteer experiences year round.

Audience:

This botanical garden is best suited for small groups.

• A biology class would benefit from a visit to the botanical gardens to explore biodiversity, plant adaptations based on region or climate, and plant taxonomy.

• Other concepts to explore:

  • Biotic and abiotic factors

  • Ecosystems

  • Greenhouse effect

Science Concepts Addressed:

The following science concepts can be addressed by a field trip to the CSUN Botanical Gardens

• Native species- The botanical garden began with only California native plants

• Environmental issues and sustainability