Tucked within the winding roads of Montecito, California lies Lotusland — the brain child of Ganna Walska. She herself was quite a character (born in Poland, became an opera singer, married six times, acquired great wealth), and her gardens are splendid. Seeing that I am desperately trying to keep our garden plants and pots alive (perhaps even flourish one day), this sounded like a great place to visit. Upon hearing Lotusland had a topiary garden that surrounds a horticultural clock, I couldn’t miss it!

This 37 acre property winds through a wonderland of various botanic beauty. We visited Lotusland while in the area for my niece’s wedding. It was a hot day, but the gardens offered various shade spots and scenery that made you forget the heat. The Lotusland Foundation works hard to educate the public on plant life, facilitate events, sustain ecosystems and harvest a love of botany in all. Here is a quick peak around some of the gardens:

I am not sure I love botany just yet, but I do love to admire beautiful gardens such as these. As a side note, my plants are currently all alive — including my newly developed butterfly garden (well, maybe it is a butterfly potted plant garden but why get technical).

You really must take a trip to Lotusland. It is well worth a visit. To make a reservation (which is required) call their office or email them at www.lotusland.org.