Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour – Members Event
September 25 @ 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Onsite Members Event
Location
Tickets
Admission is Complimentary for Patron Circles
$40 for Supporter Members
Please note: After clicking “Reserve Now,” you will be redirected to our ticketing site. Be sure to select your desired date before completing your reservation.
Behind-the-scenes tour: Topiary Garden
Join us for an exclusive members-only event at Lotusland: a behind-the-scenes tour of our whimsical Topiary Garden, led by the horticulturists who bring it to life. This intimate experience offers a rare opportunity to delve into the artistry and sustainable practices that shape one of Lotusland’s most enchanting spaces.
Nestled behind the Main House and adjoining the Parterre, the Topiary Garden—fondly dubbed Madame Walska’s “horticultural zoo”—features 26 living sculptures, including a giraffe, gorilla, peacock, and a suite of chess pieces, all encircling the iconic 25-foot Horticultural Clock.
During this special tour, Niloofar Borojerdian, lead gardener for the Topiary Garden, will demonstrate the precise trimming techniques essential for maintaining these vibrant sculptures. She will be joined by Tyler Diehl, Director of Gardens and Grounds, to discuss how Lotusland integrates sustainable plant care and conservation within a public garden setting.
Ideal for Members who are already acquainted with the Garden, this intimate experience will provide a special opportunity to explore a specific garden “in conversation” with the key garden staff who maintain them.
Paths may be uneven so please wear appropriate footwear.
Reservations required and space is limited to 15 participants. For questions, please call 805.969.9990 or reserve online.
The Topiary Garden
Lotusland’s beloved Topiary Garden is located behind the Main House and connects with the Parterre. Madame Walska referred to the topiaries as her “horticultural zoo.” Currently, there are 26 topiary figures including a giraffe, a series of chess pieces, a gorilla, and the iconic peacock, all encircling Lotusland’s Horticultural Clock. Originally designed by Ralph Stevens in 1955, the clock boasts copper zodiac signs crafted by Gunnar Thielst and is adorned with low-growing succulents.
NOTABLE SPECIES
Afrocarpus gracilior – hippocampus, camel, lion’s mane; Akebia quinata – peacock feathers; Loropetalum chinense v. rubrum ‘Monraz’ Razzleberri® – hummingbird; Juniperus chinensis ‘Mint Julep’ – chess pieces; Ligustrum japonicum – brontosaurus, horse, and pig; Buxus microphylla ‘Winter Gem’– maze and fish
Several different Syzygium taxa are represented. Includes: Syzygium paniculatum – surrounding low hedge; and several cultivars: ‘Globulus’ – fish; ‘Monterey Bay’ – parrot body, cones, pyramids, spheres; and ‘Teenie Genie’ – rabbits
