Descanso Gardens

"Lost L.A.: Descanso Gardens" explores the history of one of Southern California's most beloved public gardens. From its pre-colonial origins as an oak woodland to its contemporary role as a living museum, the film examines how the Descanso Gardens reflects the social, political, and cultural evolution of Los Angeles.

Support Provided By

Latest

Descanso Gardens' Old Verdugo, an ancient oak that doubled as a survey marker

Descanso Gardens' Old Verdugo, an ancient oak that doubled as a survey marker

Lost LA

These Boundary Trees Are Remnants of California's Lost Mexican-Era Ranchos

Ancient oaks and sycamores marked the boundaries of many Mexican-era rancho land grants.

Latino gardeners

Latino gardeners

Lost LA

How Migration Shaped Southern California's Gardens

The Los Angeles region's gardens can be seen as both sites of privilege and migration projects.

Palm trees on Figueroa Street south of 16th Street circa 1890. Courtesy of the Title Insurance and Trust / C.C. Pierce Photography Collection, USC Libraries.

Palm trees on Figueroa Street south of 16th Street circa 1890. Courtesy of the Title Insurance and Trust / C.C. Pierce Photography Collection, USC Libraries.

Lost LA

Water, Native Plants, and Southern California's Long History of Unsustainable Gardening

Nowhere else in the country have imported flora so overpowered the native.

F.M. Uyematsu, Star Nursery proprietor

F.M. Uyematsu, Star Nursery proprietor

Lost LA

The Flower That Links Descanso Gardens to the Manzanar Concentration Camp

Descanso Gardens acquired its prize collection of Camellias during World War II from incarcerated Japanese-American growers.

Enchanted Railroad

Enchanted Railroad

Lost LA

A Guide to Five Hidden Treasures at Descanso Gardens

Five of the best ways to experience Rancho del Descanso beyond its horticultural delights.