California State University of Northridge(CSUN) has a secret garden. In 1959 a Botanical Garden was planted with California native plants. Who knew? As a graduate of CSUN, I was never aware of this garden until a recent search on the history of CSUN. As CSUN has evolved so has this garden. It sits on 1.5-acres with 1-acre dedicated to the Garden and the rest housing a nursery, shade house, and a greenhouse area. The Biology Department uses the garden with class assignments and research. This Botanical Garden now has a collection of about 1,200 plant species.

The Botanical Garden is open to the public and is open to groups for tours. It offers classes and information sessions on horticultural topics. The Garden is well known for its many visitors, including squirrels, butterflies, birds and insects that entertain the human visitor. It is located between the University Student Union and Chaparral Hall. It is also available for private events and weddings. Free community workshops on gardening and highlighting plant species are also held in the Garden.

CSUN’s Botanical Garden is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. It is closed on weekends and University holidays.