Desert Botanical Garden

Phoenix, Arizona, United States

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The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, was founded in 1939 by a group of local citizens led by Swedish botanist Gustaf Starck who wanted to conserve the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert.

Originally a small collection, it has grown into a world-class living museum spanning 55 acres with over 50,000 plants representing more than 4,000 taxa, including many rare, threatened, and endangered desert species. The garden showcases various desert ecosystems through multiple thematic trails that highlight plants from the Southwest, Baja California, Australia, and South America.

It features several signature exhibits such as the Agave and Yucca Forest, the Cactus and Succulent Galleries, and the newly opened Christensen Family Desert Oasis with vibrant plant displays and water features. The garden emphasizes environmental education, conservation, and research, hosting events like the popular Las Noches de las Luminarias and art exhibitions such as Chihuly in the Desert.

It is a Phoenix Point of Pride and a major attraction for residents and visitors, providing a serene and educational experience of desert biodiversity.