The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden fosters the conservation of California's native plants through our gardens, scientific research, and education programs, and serves as a role model for sustainable action. Established in 1926, the Garden is one of the nation’s oldest native plant gardens and is renowned for its naturalistic landscapes.  Located in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Garden’s 78 acres of living collections feature more than 1,200 taxa of California native plants from all regions of the state. The Garden has helped safeguard 34 highly endangered plant species, imparted the value of plant and ecological conservation to thousands of visitors, and served as a critical resource for botanists worldwide. We are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) as a living museum, certifying we maintain the highest standards of collections management, research and educational programs.

Education

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Steve Windhager

Abraham Lizama

Sean Zweifler

Scot Pipkin

Melissa G. Patrino

Keith Nevison

Jill Freeland

Jaime Eschette

Diane Wondolowski

Diana H. Pereira

Denise Knapp

The Horticulture and Education team at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is dedicated to the cultivation and conservation of California's native flora while enhancing public understanding of ecological sustainability. This team engages in hands-on gardening, habitat restoration, and the management of living collections, alongside developing educational programs and exhibitions that inspire visitors of all ages about the importance of native plants and conservation efforts. By blending horticultural expertise with educational outreach, they foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural heritage.

Horticulture and Education

Operations and Support

Research and Conservation

Horticulture and Education

About

Team members

Other teams at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Operations and Support

Research and Conservation