Markham Regional Arboretum

Concord, California, United States

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The Markham Regional Arboretum in Concord, California, was established in 1981 by a group of local garden enthusiasts aiming to preserve the area’s botanical heritage.

Named after J.C. Markham, a prominent nurseryman who influenced local horticulture, it spans about 17 acres and features a mix of native and exotic plants arranged in themed gardens such as the Butterfly Garden, Succulent Garden, and international gardens showcasing flora from Australia, East Asia, South Africa, and the Mediterranean.

The arboretum plays an educational role, offering workshops and environmental stewardship programs while being maintained largely by volunteers.

It also includes a community garden where residents can grow plants together. Despite being close to urban developments, the arboretum provides a tranquil natural space with walking paths along Galindo Creek, connecting visitors to the region’s ecological history and serving as a living museum of plant diversity and conservation efforts.​