The Stream
The history of the stream follows the history of the botanical garden. When the Garden was started in 1929, it was an experimental site covering 31 acres. Over time, the area was reduced to seven acres and transformed into a living museum. Today, more than 1600 species and 4000 individual plants are now available for education, research, and public enjoyment.
The Garden is a natural arroyo with a diverse topography for plants. The existing stream was once a seasonal creek that filled with water during winter storms. In the mid-1960s, a storm drain was constructed underground, with a “stream” of recirculating water above. The new stream creates a cool microclimate for plants, a home for koi, and a water source for birds and insects.
The Stream Renovation Project
Over the last 60 years, the old stream and irrigation systems became less functional. In 2023–24, the Garden undertook a transformative renovation project. The project integrates the stream and irrigation systems to be more sustainable and water-efficient. The stream is now part of the irrigation system and it no longer leaks. We added a new capture pond to prevent rainwater from entering the city storm drains. The area now includes a beautiful koi pond and improved seating areas, trails, and aesthetics around the stream.
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This project was made possible through the generous contributions of
Peggy and Charlie Norris, Phyllis Marell, the UCLA campus,
and numerous other generous donors
El arroyo
La forma natural de valle del Jardín fue formada por un arroyo o lecho de arroyo estacional. El arroyo fluía con agua de las lluvias de invierno, pero durante la mayor parte del año estaba seco. La urbanización ha cambiado el flujo de agua en gran parte de California, incluyendo esta zona en Tovaangar, como es conocida por los indígenas locales de Tongva. Hoy en día, una bomba de recirculación mantiene el flujo del arroyo durante todo el año, lo cual provee un hábitat para la vida silvestre. Observa el tamaño de las hojas de las plantas que adoran el agua aquí, como la Monstera deliciosa cerca a la cascada. Estas hojas son generalmente más grandes que las que se encuentran en partes soleadas del Jardín.
Explore Further
Many water loving plants can be seen on the edges of stream, such as bananas, wild gingers, and a towering dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides). The stream, with its jungle-like appearance and wildlife, is a highlight for our K-12 tours. This beloved feature was designed and built many years ago, and is in need of extensive renovation. We are currently seeking donors to help us preserve this wonderful space for future generations.
To learn more about Tovaangar and Tongva people, check out these resources:
Mapping Indigenous L.A.
Cooking the Native Way: Chia Café Collective
Tending the Wild (KCET)
Mapping the Tongva villages of L.A.’s past
