Leptospermum scoparium (Tea Tree, Manuka) has long been recognized for its medicinal value. The Maori people of New Zealand were among the first to use it in traditional remedies; famed Pacific explorer Captain Cook brewed a tea from its leaves to protect his crews from scurvy; and today an active scientific community researches medical uses for Manuka honey. Several species of
Leptospermum can be found throughout the Garden and in this month's
In Bloom feature, complete with photos, a plant profile and exact locations.
Dear Friends,
I suspect that many Americans think of Arbor Day as a quaint idea honored nowadays by a few schools throughout the nation. In fact, when you look at its history it has great significance for today with the rapid deforestation of the planet as a backdrop. Its history also has a roundabout connection with San Francisco's Golden Gate Park…
Read the full report >>
SFBGS at Cypress Lawn
Join Curator Don Mahoney and Executive Director Michael McKechnie Sunday, April 20 at 2 PM at Cypress Lawn Memorial Park in Colma for a talk entitled “The Legacies of Trees and Foresight: San Francisco Botanical Garden and Cypress Lawn”.
More about this event >>
Cocktails with Brent Dennis,

Thursday, April 17, 6 – 8 PM
Bloomingdale's Lower Level,
845 Market Street, San Francisco
RSVP: (415) 856-5577
Sip "Blackberry Temptations" while spending time with SF Botanical Garden Director Brent Dennis as he creates floral masterpieces in stunning Lalique vases. This event will include a special presentation from Lalique's national spokesperson on the unique craftsmanship of this fine French crystal, and an opportunity to browse the 2008 spring collection. Ten percent of sales during the event benefit SFBGS.
SF Flower & Garden Show Recap
Three Cheers!
For the last seven years, visitors to the SF Flower & Garden Show have flocked to the SFBGS' booth for new information, and to admire the creations of Michael A. Gonzàlez Landscape Design. This year's booth featured Sequoia sempervirens amidst other California natives, as well as an ever-changing high-tech display of Michael's stunning photographs of the Garden. Special thanks to Michael, and to Gilbert Shepard, Ph.D., Marten G. Evertz, and Chris Jacobson of Garden Art.
Also from the Show
And the Winner Is…
Congratulations to Landscape Architect Rebecca Coffman (Nevada City) and Tom Reily of Tom Reily Landscape (Felton), winners of the first annual SFBGS Sustainable Gardening Award! Their garden creation was entitled, “Inside Out: The California Lifestyle”.
View a complete list of show winners >>
By Special Invitation Only:
Attend the Pre-Preview Party
As a special thank you to our Garden Lover, Garden Steward, Garden Patron and Strybing Circle members, a reception will be held May 2, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm prior to the Members-Only Annual Plant Sale Preview. Wine, soft drinks and light refreshments will be served.
Join at or upgrade to the Garden Lover level ($125) for this special benefit >>
More Member Perks
Now all SFBGS members can get a reduced-price subscription to Pacific Horticulture, an exceptional magazine written by and for gardeners on the West Coast.
Find out how >>