Foster Botanical Garden

Honolulu, Hawaii, United States

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Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu, Hawaii, is the oldest botanical garden in the state, covering 13.5 acres near Chinatown.

The garden's origins date back to 1853 when Queen Kalama leased 4.6 acres to Dr. William Hillebrand, a German physician and botanist who introduced many plants to Hawaii and planted trees that still thrive today. Later, the property was purchased by Thomas and Mary Foster, who further developed the garden, and after Mary Foster’s death in 1930, it was bequeathed to the City and County of Honolulu to be maintained as a public tropical park.

The garden features several distinct sections, including the Upper Terrace with the oldest plantings, the Middle Terrace with tropical palms and gingers, an Economic Garden showcasing herbs and spices, and a famous Orchid Conservatory established by Dr. Harold Lyon, the garden’s first director.

Foster Botanical Garden is also home to some of the oldest and rarest trees in Hawaii, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993, serving as a center for horticultural research and education. Visitors enjoy peaceful walking paths lined with diverse tropical flora and cultural landmarks.