Current News
Lotusland is Open
(Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays)
Lotusland Visitor Mask and Social Distance Policy
Visitors must always wear a mask and keep a minimum of six feet distance from others (visitors, staff and volunteers). Masks or face coverings must be worn over the nose and mouth at all times, by all visitors (children under 3 are exempt), all volunteers and staff. Masks with exhalation valves, vents, or holes are not acceptable. If a visitor arrives without a mask or requires a suitable replacement, we will provide one. If mask wearing and social distancing rules are not followed or if your mask is not compliant, you will be asked to leave. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us in advance of your arrival, 805.969.9990.
Welcome to
Ganna Walska Lotusland
Madame Ganna Walska, a well-known Polish opera singer and socialite, purchased the Montecito, California estate in 1941 and spent the next 43 years creating Lotusland, today recognized as one of the ten best gardens in the world. The spectacular collections of exotic plants on the 37-acre property are a personal expression of Walska’s penchant for the dramatic, the unexpected, and the whimsical. Lotusland is home to several extraordinary plant collections and around each corner there is a surprise of unique garden design and plant species. After her death in 1984, Lotusland became a nonprofit botanic garden and opened to the public in 1993. Our educational programs serve the Santa Barbara community and our innovative horticultural practices are shared with botanic gardens and garden-lovers around the world.
Environmental Education Resources
Lesson plans and projects for kids to learn about pollination, photosynthesis, adaptations, ecosystems and other life science topics. These are great resources for families engaged in at home learning.
Junior Botanist Program
This new educational experience gives fourth grade students in Santa Barbara County and their families the opportunity to enjoy an informative visit to Lotusland free of charge.
Lotusland Mission Statement
We preserve and enhance the unique, historic estate of Madame Ganna Walska, care for and improve its collections, and develop its conservation and horticulture programs, so they educate us, inspire us, and advance our understanding and appreciation of the importance of plants in our lives and in the life of the planet.
Visit our Gallery to see stunning garden imagery.
