Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium | Palm Springs

The Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium is a unique botanical garden located in Palm Springs, California. It was established in 1938 by Patricia and Chester "Cactus Slim" Moorten and has become one of the premier destinations for those interested in desert plants. This small, yet beautifully curated, garden offers visitors a chance to explore over 3,000 species of desert plants from arid regions around the world.

Key Features of Moorten Botanical Garden

Cactarium

The garden is home to the world's first cactarium, which is a greenhouse dedicated to displaying a wide variety of cacti and succulents. The collection features plants from all over the globe, including rare species such as the Welwitschia mirabilis, a plant native to Namibia. The cactarium gives visitors a chance to view these incredible plants up close, showcasing their adaptations to harsh desert environments.

Geographic Collections

The garden is divided into various sections that replicate the natural environments of different desert regions. Some of the prominent areas include:

Baja California Peninsula: Showcasing the desert flora native to this region.

Mojave Desert: Highlighting plants found in California's Mojave Desert.

Sonoran Desert: Representing the flora of the Sonoran Desert in the Southwestern United States and Mexico.

Chihuahuan Desert: Featuring plant species from the Chihuahuan Desert in North America.

Succulent Karoo (South Africa): This section features the unique desert flora of South Africa.

These themed areas provide an in-depth look at the diverse ecosystems within deserts across the globe.

Cactus Castle

One of the charming features of the Moorten Botanical Garden is the Cactus Castle. Originally the Moorten family home, this Mediterranean-style structure is surrounded by the lush desert plant life that defines the garden. It adds a historical and architectural element to the experience of the garden, making it both a botanical and cultural landmark.

On-Site Nursery

The garden also features an on-site nursery where visitors can purchase desert plants for their own gardens. The nursery sells a variety of cacti, succulents, and other desert-adapted plants, as well as pottery and gardening supplies. It’s a perfect stop for those who want to take a piece of the desert home with them.

Hours & Admission

Hours of Operation

October 1 – May 31: The garden is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but is closed on Wednesdays.

June 1 – September 30: The garden operates on a reduced schedule, open only on Fridays through Sundays, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Admission Fees

Adults: $7

Seniors: $7

Veterans: $5

Children (ages 5–12): $3

Children under 5: Free

Location

The Moorten Botanical Garden is located at:

1701 S Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264.

It is a short drive from downtown Palm Springs, making it an easy and accessible destination for visitors to the area.

Weddings & Events

The Moorten Botanical Garden offers a picturesque setting for weddings and other events. The Palm Grove Oasis area is available for intimate ceremonies, with the capacity to accommodate up to 80 guests. Weddings can be scheduled from November 1 to May 31 each year, offering a beautiful backdrop of desert flora and scenic vistas.

Visitor Tips

Duration of Visit: Most visitors typically spend around an hour exploring the garden. It’s a perfect place for a quick visit to enjoy the desert beauty or to take in the unique plant collections.

Parking: There is free street parking available near the garden. Be sure to look for available spaces on the surrounding streets.

Guided Tours: For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available by appointment. These tours provide insights into the garden's plant collection and the history of its development.

Additional Information

Phone: You can reach the Moorten Botanical Garden at (760) 327-6555 for additional details or to schedule a tour.

Website: The official website provides more information on the garden, its collections, and events. Visitors can also check for the latest updates on hours and admission.

The Moorten Botanical Garden offers a rare opportunity to experience the desert’s beauty up close, with its incredible plant collections and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or someone looking to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the desert, the Moorten Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination in Palm Springs.