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Parks #6 in Santa Rosa, California

Luther Burbank Home & Gardens

4.6 · 751 reviews
A quiet and scholarly space for reflection.
Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, 204 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States
Interesting facts
1

Burbank is buried in an unmarked grave beneath a cedar of Lebanon tree on the grounds, as requested in his will.

2

The property contains a massive Chilean wine palm that Burbank planted as a seedling in the late 1800s.

3

Burbank developed the 'Russet Burbank' potato, which remains the most widely grown potato variety in the United States today.

4

The estate functions as a living laboratory where historical agricultural techniques are still utilized for preservation.

5

During his life, Burbank hosted famous figures including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Jack London at this specific residence.

Overview

Luther Burbank Home & Gardens is the former residence and testing ground of the renowned American botanist who developed over 800 plant varieties here. The site features a 1.6-acre estate including Burbank’s 19th-century Greek Revival house, a carriage house, and his original greenhouses. Visitors can explore various demonstration gardens showcasing plants bred by Burbank, such as the Shasta daisy, the plumcot, and the Paradox walnut. The gardens are maintained to preserve the historical horticultural experiments conducted between 1884 and 1926. Educational guided tours are available to explain the scientific methods Burbank used to hybridize flowers, fruits, and vegetables. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark. A small visitor center provides additional context regarding his lasting impact on global agriculture.

Photo spot

The bench situated directly in front of the iconic greenhouse with the historic home in the background.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the gravel and soil paths throughout the demonstration gardens.

Check the official website for guided tour availability, as interior home access is restricted to these scheduled sessions.

Bring a hat and sunscreen as much of the garden area is fully exposed to direct sunlight.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to pick any flowers, fruits, or plant cuttings, as these are historical specimens protected for research and propagation.

Good to know

The site is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; guided tours are seasonal, with higher availability during spring and summer months.

Etiquette

Stay on marked garden paths to protect delicate horticultural specimens; quiet demeanor is requested near the burial site.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early summer, when the diverse floral species are in peak bloom and the weather is temperate.
Address
Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, 204 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States
38.436, -122.712
Get directions
Details
Botanical HighlightsOriginal test plots of Shasta daisies and hybrid fruit trees
Historical Features19th-century Greek Revival home and restored carriage house

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early summer, when the diverse floral species are in peak bloom and the weather is temperate..

The bench situated directly in front of the iconic greenhouse with the historic home in the background.

Close by you'll find Juilliard Park, Howarth Park, Museum of Sonoma County.